Despite all your best efforts, you’ve had a lot going on this past year. But, you soldiered on and somehow made it work. Now, all you want is to kick back and relax, which probably involves switching off some of your brains.
You want to be able to relax, but you’re finding it impossible to stop any aching in your neck.
Chronic neck pain is almost enough to ruin your day, but we can’t let that happen! Keep reading to find out how to combat that neck ache once and for all.
1. Start Exercising Regularly to Alleviate Neck Pain
People with chronic neck pain should start with low-impact exercises such as walking, yoga, or swimming. These activities are gentle on the neck and provide just enough stimulation to alleviate pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises are also beneficial in providing chronic neck pain relief.
Strengthening the neck muscles can increase joint stability and decrease stress on the neck area. For painful conditions, it is important to start an exercise program with low-intensity cardio and warm-up activities.
Additionally, take breaks from exercising if pain begins to become severe and use a support brace when needed. Exercise should become an integral part of life for anyone enduring chronic neck pain as it offers therapeutic effects, prevents further injury, and can reduce overall pain and discomfort.
2. Taking Breaks From Prolonged Posture Positions
Poor posture and extended sitting in an uncomfortable position can cause tension in the neck and shoulders and contribute to neck issues.
Sitting in unnatural positions can significantly strain your neck muscles and result in long-term effects like chronic neck pain. To address this, it’s best to take breaks from any single posture you’ve been in for longer than 15 minutes or so.
3. Maintain a Good Posture for a Healthy Neck
Having a good posture involves keeping the chest and spine upright, keeping the head straight, and maintaining a proper balance of weight in your shoulders.
When standing, use support if needed and pull the shoulder blades back. Proper sitting habits should also be adopted, including sitting up straight and using a chair with adjustable settings for arm and leg support.
4. Invest in Ergonomic Furniture for Proper Support
When selecting the right furniture, look for items that provide the necessary support for your neck. Proper support helps to reduce muscular tension and strain.
Adjustable furniture and chairs promote the comfort and support necessary for good posture. A cushioned chair with lower and upper back support adds additional comfort, along with a footrest for proper body alignment.
5. Speak to Your Doctor About Alternative Treatment Options
It is a good idea to inquire about noninvasive options such as chiropractic care, massage therapy, physical therapy, and/or acupuncture. In addition to these treatment options, it is also important to discuss lifestyle changes that can help prevent neck pain, such as changing the way you sit or changing the weight and size of the items you carry.
Your chronic pain doctor can also recommend exercises tailored to your own needs, such as yoga or swimming, to help keep your body and muscles loose and flexible.
Follow These Ways to Ease Chronic Neck Pain Today
It doesn’t take much to protect your neck from chronic pain. With just a few simple tips such as improving your posture, using appropriate supports when sitting, and stretching and exercising, you can greatly reduce your risk of chronic neck pain.
Start protecting your neck today and experience improved wellness for years to come!
Keep reading to check out some more great content before you go.
