Since many of us sit all day when we work, it’s no wonder neck pain has become so common. A stiff neck typically means you can’t move your head properly, which drastically affects your quality of life. While several factors cause neck pain, there are also numerous ways to eliminate it.
Read on to learn more about the potential causes of neck pain and what you can do to relieve it.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Unfortunately, neck pain can appear if we pull a muscle, make a sudden movement, or sleep in a position that isn’t good for our neck. Also, sitting for extended periods and having bad posture could be culprits in neck pain.
Besides these, more severe conditions and injuries can “hide” behind neck pain, such as meningitis or whiplash.
How to Relieve Neck Pain?
The number one method for trying to relieve neck pain is doing gentle stretches. Move your head around slightly and focus on your breathing. If you feel any sharp pain, stop immediately, and try again later. If it’s easier, try using your hand to support your head when moving it. Another option is to tilt your head down towards your chest and slowly lift it.
Studies have shown stretching will loosen up tight and tense muscles and provide pain relief. Stretching is beneficial even if you don’t feel neck pain, especially if you sit a lot. If the pain is too severe and you can’t stretch at all, we recommend going to a doctor.
Keep Your Neck in Check
Although it may seem too easy, stretching is still the key to relieving neck pain. Remember to do it slowly and gently; otherwise, you could hurt your neck and cause even more pain. If you often feel severe neck pain, it’s best to consult a doctor. You may have posture issues or underlying conditions that need to be checked out by a professional.
