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I don't want to be a pain in the neck ... but I'm betting a lot of you already have that condition, since it's often the result of talking on the cell phone, working on a computer or just sitting for too long. Around 25% of you spend 70% of your waking hours sitting down and more than five hours daily on your cell phone. And believe it or not, by age 80, the average adult will have spent around 17 years of their life using the Internet.

Now, a new study in BMC Public Health reveals that mobile phone use is the riskiest activity, "increasing the likelihood of neck pain by 82%." Regular computer use increased the risk by 23%.

Once you get neck pain, the Cleveland Clinic suggests using ice for the first 48 to 72 hours, then using heat after that; taking over-the-counter pain relievers; and getting a gentle massage. Also, do stretches, such as rolling your shoulders back and forth 10 times, squeezing your shoulder blades together 10 times, and bringing your ear to your shoulder 10 times on each side. It's also important to stop curving your neck and shoulders forward when using the computer and phone.

The Clinic concludes: If trying to ease the pain yourself doesn't do the trick, it's time to "see your doctor to figure out if there's an underlying issue or if there's some behavior you need to change." And for more info and support on upgrading your self-care, sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.

(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.