Stiff Neck

Sleepquest · Post by **Sleepquest** » Sun Apr 29, 2007 9:06 pm

I'm relatively new to the CPAP world, having started using a machine and mask about mid January. The machine is fine, and I think I'm sleeping better. The folks who sold me the machine sent me off with a Respironics ComfortGel mask, which seems to be the only one they sell. The mask is fairly comfortable. I'm getting a bit of leakage, but nothing that is really a great problem.

What I'm wondering about is the stiff neck I've developed that has been going for at least two months. The mask straps are not all that tight, and I've tried hanging the hose over the bed post as well as just letting it hang down between the bed and night table where the CPAP stands.

Have seen nothing on the website about others having this problem, so I'm wondering if it is even related to the mask.

Any suggestions?

linda3777 · Post by **linda3777** » Sun Apr 29, 2007 9:10 pm

Is it possible you are sleeping sounder and therefore laying in one spot for too long? I noticed when I started using my CPAP, I would wake up in the same position in which I went to sleep because I was sleeping good for the first time in years.

F.Y.I. There is a product called BioFreeze that comes in a roll on type bottle that would work wonders on your stiff neck. Most chiropractors sell it.

Sleepquest · Post by **Sleepquest** » Sun Apr 29, 2007 9:28 pm

I don't think sleeping in one position too long is the cause because I'm still aware of turning from side to side and onto my back.

Thanks for suggesting BioFreeze. Am about to go see a chiropractor, so maybe they will have it.

Elle · Post by **Elle** » Sun Apr 29, 2007 9:32 pm

Mine was stiff from being semi aware that I might bump the mask on my pillow so i was holding my head in a tense position. I think it takes a while to trust that it is all as it should be and just relax.

Snoredog · Post by **Snoredog** » Mon Apr 30, 2007 1:05 am

my guess:

Headgear riding down too low on the neck, or
one bad pillow.

It is hard finding a soft pillow that holds your head at the right angle. Most that hold it in the right position are too hard including the Tempurpedic pillow.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Apr 30, 2007 1:44 am

I had the same problem and after asking the same question here i was advised to try a mask friendly pillow such as the pap pillow. i bought a similar pillow and bingo ! instant relief