How to get rid of neck and shoulder pain
Question : I HAVE been suffering from pain around my neck,
shoulder and lower back. I tried simple stretching movements and
avoided sleeping on pillows, yet this pain never goes away.
Answer : YOUR head and neck region is vulnerable to many
different types of stress. One of the most common causes of neck
pain, and sometimes headaches, is bad posture which can cause
misalignment of your neck, head, and spine.
Keep your neck in a neutral position whenever possible. In other
words, don't bend or hunch your neck forward for long periods.
Try not to sit in one position for a long time.
Your sleeping position is another possible source of neck
problems. You may want to invest in a new pillow. Feather
pillows are generally preferable to foam; they conform easily to
the shape of the neck. Pillows that are too high will cause you
to sleep with your neck at an angle. A bed that doesn't offer
enough back support can also be a source of neck discomfort.
Calcium and magnesium deficiencies may also cause neck stiffness
and pain as they can result in spasms of blood vessels. Thus a
high calcium and magnesium intake is highly recommended. Food
like milk, soymilk, salmon, green leafy vegetables and legumes
and a calcium and magnesium supplement should also be
incorporated into your diet.
Here are exercises that might help:
* HEAD HALF ROLL
Relax your arms at your sides and gently roll your head from
left to right for several times. Feel the stretch in your neck
muscles. Relax and repeat five to 10 times.
* SHOULDER ROLL EXERCISE
Relax your arms and gently roll both shoulders in circular
motion. Feel the stretch as you move. Repeat five to 10 times
* STANDING TALL
Stand in a normal, relaxed posture, then pretend that a string
pulling you straight up from the top of your head. Feel the
stretch in your neck and spine. Relax and repeat five to 10
times.