Easy Ways to Relieve Neck Pain

By Donna Stark

If you felt great yesterday but woke up this morning with neck pain, it may be comforting to know you aren't alone. There are many others who, like you, went to bed without any issues and woke up feeling completely the opposite. But that doesn't mean you need to spend your day in pain. There are several things you can do to find the relief your body is screaming for and to eliminate your discomfort as quickly as it appeared. Take a look at some of them below.

Hot or Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress and heating pad to your neck can relieve some of the pain and soreness you are feeling. You will want to be sure to start with the cold as this will help reduce much of the swelling and inflammation. Put it on for 20 minutes and then take it off for another 20. Repeat as needed. And then, after a day or two has passed, turn to your heat. Heating pads will help encourage blood flow, relax stiff muscles, and increase range of motion.

Massages

Getting a massage every now and then isn't just good for relaxation, it's also a great way to ease muscle tension and stiffness! Ask a family member to work on your neck, do it yourself, or visit a professional massage therapist. It really can make a difference in how you feel.

Exercise and Stretches

Staying physically active, with both exercise and stretching, is another way to keep your body relaxed and feeling good. Both exercise and stretches will ease muscle tension and help increase the range of motion of your neck. Just be sure to do these as often as you can!

Proper Posture

Paying attention to how you hold and carry your body throughout the day is important, especially when it comes to neck pain. Make sure you are not hunched over your desk at work or school, keep all your monitors at eye level, and invest in an ergonomic chair that provides plenty of lumbar support. Try to sit in a position that will encourage your ears, shoulders, and hip to remain in a straight line with each other.

Say Goodbye to Neck Pain

Nothing is worse than waking up with neck pain, but hopefully, the steps above will help you reduce the number of days that occurs. And if you need more help to figure out a solution, don't forget to visit your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. They would love to help!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Denver, Colo.