Neck Pain

Stretches To Help Prevent Neck Pain

The optimum way to avoid neck pain is to have strong and flexible muscles and joints. These on their own resist strain. Placing the neck in a static position for long spans of time raises the risk of neck pain. The best prevention is movement. Take frequent breaks from the static positions and perform some stretches. Some of the exercises that relieve neck pain are discussed below.

Different Stretches

In the Neck Glide, start off with a straight neck. Slowly slide the chin forward. Hold for 5 seconds and return to the start position. Repeat this ten times. In the Neck Extension, gradually move the head backwards so that you are looking upward. The back is not to be bent. Hold for 5 seconds and return to the starting position. These two exercises can be done during work. By pressing and holding the acupressure points above the neck, it is thought of that the person can feel some amount of relief. Now look straight ahead. Slowly turn the head to the left. Hold for ten seconds and return to the starting position. Repeat the procedure for the right side. Perform the stretches ten times for each side. This is a very good exercise particularly for those who work at a computer. It must be done every half an hour. Now again look straight ahead. Bend the head to the left. Hold for 5 seconds and then return to the starting position. Repeat the exercise ten times. In the Neck stretch, start by looking straight ahead. Then gradually lift both the shoulders upwards. Hold them for 5 seconds and then return to the starting position. Repeat this stretch 10 times. In the Neck forward Flexion, lower the chin towards the chest, hold for 5 seconds and return to the starting position. Utility of Stretches   Most of the exercises mentioned above are useful if the head is kept in an immobile position for long periods of time, like working on a computer. These exercises must be done after every half an hour to reduce neck strain. Practicing these exercises regularly will show a marked improvement in the functionality of the neck.