Hi @pierwell, did you forget to mention that the shooting pain is excruciating?
I've had this for over a year and it's getting better now with less frequent attacks.
One thing I've learned is not to initiate movement with my head, but with my body.
Be careful when putting your head down (to read or use your phone) - try to keep your chin level.
I've gone to PT a number of times without much relief.
I also have severe arthritis in my neck.
I bought a shiatsu massager with heat and that helps. I usually use it for half an hour everyday.
I have a heating pad, specially designed for the head and neck that I've started using every night.
I also use myofascial release. There are a number of videos on YouTube. Dr. Alan Mandell has some techniques. They help somewhat.
My doctor prescribed Baclofen, a muscle relaxer specifically for the neck and head. I'm not sure it helps, but I just renewed the prescription.
After heat treatment, and before going to bed, I apply a homemade concoction of peppermint oil and jojoba oil. That really helps! The incidents of shooting pains have decreased since I'm using it. Also I lost the feeling of tingling numbness on the side of my neck.
I do keep doing the exercises and stretches I've been given and have resisted the steroid shot.
I need a shoulder replacement on my right side which complicates things. Most of my head and neck pain is on the left side, and sometimes in the center of my head.
I also found a cervical pillow that's pretty good. It has a depression in the center so I sleep on my back now.
Good luck. This is the worst pain!