I have a pain in the neck (lol) as well number. Did your doctor suggest physio, or exercises? I was given some exercises years ago, and whenever my neck is particularly problematic, swear I'll do them morning and evening. I do, it settles down a bit, I stop doing them, and off we go again.
I find going to a weekly yoga class is something that keeps me on track and stops my shoulder/neck and upper back from seizing up. Our yoga teacher always talks about crackling, painful necks and backs as we start our warm up - good luck