Today i have a painful stiff neck and can't turn to the left. any advice?

What is cause?: A painful stiff neck is often the result of simple wear and tear. The inability to turn can be the result of muscle spasm (most often), disc disease, arthritis, stress, flu like illnesses and heart problems if associated with chest pain. Treatment depends on cause. The right pillow for sleep is a must. Moist heat, yoga, stretching for mild symptoms. Physical therapy if not improving. See your dr.

Heat: Best treatment that i know of for a stiff neck is heat either in the form of hot showers or baths or moist heat pack applied several times per day. Massage can be extremely helpful as well. If it does not get better or if you have any symptoms such as severe headache, visual problems, nausea, vomiting you should see your doctor urgently. Usually a stiff neck is benign and will go awayin a few days.