re: Anyone have tips for severe/sharp pain in neck from sleeping?

Cervical pillow that supports your necl when sleeping. This one is the best one that I have found after several years and using multiple different ones.

Chiropractor. The first time I had that problem was when I was in my early 30s. I left my very first visit to the chiropractor knowing that what he had done had fixed whatever the underlying problem was. My neck was still sore, but it got better within a couple of days. Before that, I had been in pain for a week with no relief.

Disc Golf. This sport was made for you. The motion involved in throwing the disc (torso and head twisting) is perfect therapy for you once the pain is resolved. Do not try it while you neck is still hurting. Going to a batting cage regularly will accomplish the same thing as will swimming laps.

Avoid sitting in a chin-down position. If that isn't what is causing the problem, it may be contributing. Tablet in lap, computer screen too low on desc, etc. And get that pillow.