Lower Neck pain

HTFU?  Probably not.  The most common problem would be a cramp in one of the neck muscles.   The more serious problem is a degenerative condition of the neck vertebrae that are leading to compression of the nerves.  Irritation of the nerve can cause the muscle cramp or other referred pain in the shoulder, arm and hand depending on the nerves that are involved.

The best option is ibuprofen for the inflammation and some rest to let the cramp loosen up.  Then a program of stretching and strengthening the neck muscles to better support the spine.  And, like your mother always told you, sit up straight.

You didn't mention any muscle weakness, but if you are having significant muscle weakness or noticeable imbalance in strength between the left and right, that is a more serious problem.  You need to get to a doctor and have it checked.  A pinched nerve is a real bummer and can lead to permanent nerve damage.

This is based on personal experience, not medical experience.

TW 

I'm going through the same thing right now.  It's just annoying enough that I just can't ignore it.  Anyway, after several years of prodding I finally broke down and got a neck/back massage.  I can't believe I waited so long.  It really helped to loosen things up.

Other than that I've been working on neck stretches and they really seems to help.  Below is the one that seems to help the most.  It taken a couple weeks but it seems to be going in the right direction. 

Sit up straight. Put your hands on the back of your head. Now pull your head downwards so you are looking at the floor. Hold. You should feel a stretch in your upper spine.