Craning your head forward at work, in the car, and while browsing your phone can strain and place excess pressure on the neck. If you frequently deal with neck pain and stiffness, there are a few ways to ease the discomfort. Follow the tips below for lasting pain relief.

How to Reduce Neck Pain

1. Improve Your Posture

While straightening your back may seem like an arbitrary rule from childhood, good posture is key to improving neck pain. Poor posture puts unnecessary stress on the spine, leaving it misaligned and vulnerable to injury. 

When seated in front of a computer, sit as far back in the chair as possible. The shoulders should be pulled back and the spine should be flat against the back of the chair. Plant both feet on the ground, face forward, and keep your eyes level with the monitor. 

2. Sleep Properly

If you’ve ever woken up with a crick in your neck, the way you sleep can affect your body in the morning. Only sleep on the side or back. When sleeping on your stomach, your head will stay twisted to one side for hours at a time. Avoid sleeping on too many pillows, which can prevent the neck from moving freely when sleeping.

3. Take Breaks on Long Drives

Driving for prolonged periods can leave the neck stiff. Be sure to adjust the seat to a comfortable position that provides ample support and promotes good posture. Avoid repetitively looking down to adjust the radio or climate controls, and never text and drive. Stop regularly to take breaks and stretch.

4. Stretch the Neck

Routinely stretching the neck muscles can help prevent stiffness. Start by rolling your shoulders backward and down, then squeeze the shoulder blades together. Slowly tilt your ear to each shoulder and then turn your head from side to side. Repeat each step 10 times to adequately loosen up the neck muscles.

5. Visit a Chiropractor

If neck pain has become a recurring or chronic problem, a chiropractic adjustment may be the solution. Chiropractors realign the spine to improve mobility and restore range of motion. Regular adjustments can help soothe neck pain and improve the function of the spine.
 

To ease neck and shoulder stiffness and pain, trust the team at Stroud Chiropractic Clinic in Archdale, NC. These chiropractors will develop a personalized treatment plan to restore the alignment and movement of the spine, whether the problems stem from arthritis, a sports injury, sciatica, poor posture, or an auto accident. Call (336) 434-2107 to schedule a free consultation. For more information about neck pain treatment, visit their website.