When it comes to neck pain traditional treatments, like medication or hot/cold therapy may not always provide relief. Finding the combination of remedies for your neck pain may require some trial and error. Here are a few known tips that could help you effectively manage your neck pain.
Opt for a chair that supports your neck
Maintaining posture throughout the day is key to reducing stress on your spine caused by head posture. One way to achieve this is by using a chair, with neck support. Consider investing in an office chair that features a headrest and makes use of it. Ensure that the back of your head rests comfortably against the headrest with your ears positioned above your shoulders. Additionally, remember to use the headrest provided in recliners and cars whenever possible. If you work on a computer adjust its height so that your eyes align with the third of the monitor screen. Also, think about using a standing desk as it encourages a position and discourages hunching forward.
Consider using a water pillow
An issue, with neck pain, is its interference with quality sleep and potential exacerbation upon waking up. Although there isn’t a pillow type for everyone experiencing neck pain some individuals have found water pillows to be particularly beneficial. Water pillows allow you to adjust firmness by increasing or decreasing the amount of water inside. Essentially adding water makes the pillow firmer while reducing the water content creates a feel.
Consult a therapist
Physical therapy is commonly associated with rehabilitating injuries, such as those sustained during sports activities or accidents. However, it can also offer advantages when it comes to neck-related issues;
- Identifying posture or habits that may contribute to pain and stiffness.
- Teaching techniques to minimize the risk of re-injury.
- Strengthening weakened areas of the neck through targeted exercises.
It would be wise to consult your doctor regarding whether physical therapy could improve the management of your neck pain. Enhancing strength and flexibility in the neck area may provide support, for the spine and alleviate discomfort.
Some studies indicate that combining therapy with treatments, such, as aerobic activity may offer additional benefits.
Give gua sha a try
Gua sha involves a trained practitioner using a spoon to apply strokes along the skin of the area. Originating from Chinese Traditional Medicine gua sha is applied to areas where blood circulation is believed to be stagnant and blocking energy (known as “qi”). While scientific evidence for qi is lacking some individuals have reported relief from neck pain through gua sha. One small study found that gua sha provided relief from heat therapy for neck pain. Not all studies agree on this and further research is necessary.
When performed by a trained using equipment gua sha is generally considered safe. However, it should not be used on damaged or thinning skin. Additionally during the sha process tiny capillaries in the skin may. This results in the formation of petechiae (red spots) which can be mistaken by others as a rash or bruising caused by abuse. Typically these petechiae clear up within a day.
Take advantage of swimming
Swimming is a form of low-impact exercise, for individuals experiencing neck or back pain.
When you’re, in the water it provides buoyancy, which can relieve stress on your spine. If you have neck pain it’s important to consult with your doctor or physical therapist to determine which swimming strokes you should avoid or modify.
For some individuals, swimming might be too strenuous for their necks. In some cases, water therapy is often an alternative. Water therapy involves exercises performed in a swimming pool instead of on land.
Carve Out Moments for Mindful Meditation
Take time for meditation. Find a spot where you can relax and focus your mind as this can help reduce stress and bring about a perspective. Mindful meditation techniques include controlled breathing exercises and guided imagery—like visualizing the pain moving from your neck to your arm before dissipating from your fingers.
Keep a Journal
Keeping a journal may be beneficial for managing neck pain. Regularly expressing emotions through writing in a journal has been shown to reduce stress and improve function. Alternatively, if writing isn’t your preference recording audio entries might also be helpful.
Over time maintaining a journal of your thoughts and daily experiences may enable you to identify triggers that worsen your pain—such, as foods or activities.
Consider cognitive behavioral therapy
Consider trying therapy as a potential solution, for chronic neck pain. Dealing with this kind of pain can be incredibly frustrating especially when the treatments you’ve tried far haven’t provided relief. However, a cognitive behavioral therapist can teach you ways to approach the challenges associated with your neck pain. By focusing on these aspects and adopting strategies you may find it easier to follow your treatment plan effectively.
It’s worth noting that studies have produced results regarding the effectiveness of behavioral therapy for treating neck pain. Nevertheless, some individuals have reported experiencing benefits from this approach. Additionally, a cognitive behavioral therapist might also provide guidance on meditation and journaling.
Exercise Caution in Your Phone or Tablet Usage
Another important aspect to consider is how you use your phone or tablet device in relation, to your neck health. You may not realize it. Cradling your phone while talking or constantly bending your head forward while reading or texting can place stress on your cervical spine and lead to painful strains commonly known as “text neck.” To reduce the likelihood of encountering problems;
- Opt for using a hands headset when making calls.
- When browsing or texting make an effort to hold the phone higher so that you’re not straining your neck at an angle.
- Take breaks during phone use sessions and make sure to stretch out your neck muscles.
By paying attention to these tips and adjusting how you interact with devices you can reduce the chances of experiencing neck pain caused by prolonged phone usage.
We hope that these 9 tips can provide you with some ideas to try for relieving neck pain.