For a cheap, reusable hot pack, fill a sock with rice and sew or iron the top together with fusing tape. Heat in the microwave for 1-3 minutes and drape the sock over painful muscles. Experiment with different pillows such as cervical rolls or pillows filled with barley husks. More support during sleep can decrease neck pain. They all reduce the quality of sleep.
Sleep is of the up most importance.
Arrange your house so that frequently used objects are at waist level. This is particularly helpful in the bathroom and kitchen. Ask your doctor for a disabled parking permit. There's no use going shopping if you use up all your energy walking through the parking lot. Eat small, frequent meals.