Do you ever feel like your head is being pulled forward by an invisible force? Or that you can’t fully turn your head to the side without pain? If so, you’re not alone. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, neck pain is a common problem affecting about 15 percent of adults in the United States.
There are many possible causes of neck pain, including poor posture, muscle strain, and arthritis. Fortunately, there are also many things you can do to relieve your neck pain. Here are 9 tips:
- Take breaks throughout the day.
If you work at a desk job, it’s important to take breaks every 20 minutes or so to move your neck around and stretch your muscles. Even just a few minutes of movement can help alleviate neck pain.
- Use an ergonomic chair.
If you don’t have an ergonomic chair, now is the time to invest in one. An ergonomic chair will support your back and neck properly, which can help reduce or eliminate neck pain. It can be worth the investment to invest in an ergonomic chair, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting down.
- Use proper posture.
One of the main causes of neck pain is poor posture. When you sit or stand, be sure to keep your shoulders back and your chin level with the ground. This will help reduce the amount of strain on your neck muscles.
- Try heat or ice therapy.
If you’re struggling with neck pain, try using heat or ice therapy. Heat can help relax your muscles, while ice can help reduce inflammation. Try using a heating pad for 20 minutes at a time, or apply an ice pack to your neck for 15 minutes.
- Get a massage.
A neck massage can do wonders for relieving neck pain. Schedule a professional massage, or try using a personal massager at home. Just be sure to use gentle pressure and avoid massaging any areas that are especially sore.
- Try chiropractic care.
Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for neck pain. A chiropractor can realign your spine, which can take the pressure off of your neck muscles. At your next chiropractic appointment, you can ask for a neck adjustment in Salt Lake City or another city near you. It’s important to find a chiropractor that you trust, as some chiropractors use too much force when adjusting the spine.
Acupuncture is another option for treating neck pain. This ancient Chinese practice involves placing thin needles into pressure points in your body. Some people find that acupuncture helps relieve their neck pain. Since acupuncture is a bit of a mystery, it’s important to find a qualified practitioner who you feel comfortable with.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
If you’re struggling with neck pain, you can try taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain. Just be sure to follow the directions on the package and never take more than the recommended dosage.
- See a doctor.
If you’re struggling with neck pain that doesn’t seem to improve, it’s important to see a doctor. In some cases, neck pain can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. A doctor can help you determine the cause of your neck pain and develop a treatment plan.
If you’re struggling with neck pain, don’t despair. There are several things you can do to find relief. Try some of the tips above, and see what works best for you.
