Injury, muscle tension, poor posture or stress; these and many other factors cause neck pain. Here are some tips on what to do about it
The most common cause of neck pain is stress. Then, in addition to pain, we feel tension and muscle spasms in this area, but also a headache. The second cause is incorrect posture, which in turn leads to all kinds of degeneration. This is when the bony system presses on the cervical nerves, causing numbness not only in the neck, but very often also in the arm or hand. Neck pain occurs in people who work in front of a computer and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. The position in which we sleep can also have an influence. A large group of people who suffer from neck pain are also elderly people. It can also affect people after accidents. In such cases, you should immediately see a doctor
Injuries during traffic accidents are beyond your control. However, you can take care of your neck every day. First of all, make sure you have the right posture when working at a computer or watching TV. You should also do daily exercises to relax your spine and neck. Also, try to move your head from time to time while sitting to prevent neck numbness. A good way to avoid neck pain is to get enough sleep in the right position, invest in a special pillow and a suitable mattress
Your first resort when your neck starts to hurt is any type of cooling or warming gel that you rub on the sore spot. These gels can be enriched with additional painkillers and anti-inflammatory substances. So they should give you relief, at least for a few hours. One of the home remedies for muscle or joint pain is to rub the sore area with rubbing alcohol. It is also a good idea to take a warm bath during a neck pain attack – this treatment should help you relax and unwind. Gently massaging the sore area is also a temporary measure you can take
Paradoxically, exercises to stretch and relax the muscles in the neck area can provide great relief. Just lie on your back on a flat surface and roll a towel under your neck. Try to relax your neck, letting your head fall back. Try to lie in this position for a few minutes. This exercise will certainly help a little. Another neck stretching exercise you can do is to draw your head to your shoulder. All you have to do is sit or stand up straight and place your hand on top of your head, gently drawing it to your shoulder. Remember to do this exercise while pulling your head to one shoulder and then the other. Also remember to keep your shoulders relaxed while performing the exercise. A very simple arm wringing exercise can also help to relax your neck
In addition to exercises or pain relief gels, you can also use infusions and herbs. One of the most popular is calla infusion. The drink has muscle relaxing properties. Simply boil the bark in water for about five minutes, then cool it and drink about three tablespoons of the infusion, preferably one hour after a meal, several times a day. You can also use herbs as a compress for a sore neck. The best for this purpose will be rosemary, but also mint should work well. Just prepare an infusion of herbs, then soak gauze or a small towel in it and apply it to the painful area, no longer than 15 minutes
Apple cider vinegar can also be invaluable for neck pain, which we can apply similar to rosemary or mint. Simply soak a cloth or napkin in apple cider vinegar and place it on the sore neck for up to several hours. After that time, the stiffness and pain should subside. The downside of this solution, unfortunately, is the smell of apple cider vinegar, which can be disturbing
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