Pain located in the neck is a common medical condition. There are many problems you can encounter in the neck and shoulder that cause pain. Fortunately there are different techniques you can use to stop neck pain. Neck pain can come from a number of disorders and diseases of any tissues in the neck, such as degenerative disc disease, neck strain, whiplash, herniated disc or a pinched nerve. Neck pain is also commonly referred to as cervical pain.
Most causes of neck pain are not serious. It is very common that neck muscles are strained from poor posture. Whether it is leaning into your computer, hunching over your work, how you sit when you are driving or how you sleep. Everyday wear-and-tear and arthritis also are a common cause of neck pain. As long as you don’t have any serious problems, consult your doctor if the pain is too intense, some exercises can go a long way and help stop neck pain.
A good way to ease your neck pain is through exercise. Try to stretch your neck muscles every day. You can do this by first standing or sitting with good posture. And then by turning your head to the left as far as you can without being uncomfortable and hold it there for a few seconds. Then do the same while turning your head to the right. Then do this by stretching you head forward and backward. Next you can tilt you head to the left and then to the right repeating the same process. Do this over again about ten times, each time trying to stretch your neck further and further. Remember not to overdue it. You can try this once or twice a day.
You can also introduce some resistance to your stretching regiment. While you are doing these exercises, try adding some resistance. Take your hand, put it on your head and add some resistance. This will increase the effectiveness of the exercises and strengthen your muscles. In the hope of alleviating any neck or shoulder pain or even stop neck pain entirely.
Another exercise you can try is rotating your head. In a slow circular motion start to rotate your head. First in small circular motions and as your neck muscles stretch, start making bigger circular motions. Remember not to push it too far, use smooth controlled motion at all times, don’t jerk or bounce at all and if your in too much pain it might be time to visit a doctor or chiropractor.
There are many ways you can use heat to help stop neck pain. Take advantage when your in the shower because it is a good way to loosen up your neck and ease the pain. When your in the shower you can let the hot water run on your neck for a while to loosen it up. Applying heat using a heating pad, moist heating pad or hot water bottle can also be very helpful.
There are microwavable heating bags you can also try. They are made up of tiny beads that, when microwaved, will store heat for a specific amount of time. Another way would be to use a balm like Icy Hot to apply to the area.
If your are not using good posture, that alone can cause neck pain. Remember always use good posture when sitting and standing. This is especially important while you are lifting heavy objects. Good posture while sleeping is also a big help. Sleep on your side or back if at all possible, as this is more comfortable for the neck than sleeping on the stomach. Use a pillow to provide proper support for the head and shoulder. You can also use a pillow either between or under your legs. Using good posture techniques will go a long way in preventing, easing or can stop neck pain altogether.