There are measures which help to prevent muscles in the neck from becoming stiff and painful. Stretching the neck several times a day is good, especially for those who work at a desk.

Many of us instinctively roll our head or bend our neck from side to side. Next time you get this urge go ahead and do it. It's neck stretching.

Here is a step by step instruction:

1. Sit down on a comfortable chair and relax the shoulders.

2. Breathing deeply, let your head drop down slowly forwards until you feel the muscles in the back of the neck pull slightly. Hold this position for ten seconds,

3. Slowly bring your head back to its upright position.

4. Push your head backwards slowly until you feel a slight stretch in the front of the neck, and hold for a count of ten.

5. Slowly bring your head back to its upright position.

6. Repeat steps one through five, tilting head to each side.

Do this several times a day.

This technique should not be used in place of any advice or instructions given to you by a medical professional.

Do not strain and be careful not to force the stretches in the neck, make sure this stretch is easy.