How to Get Rid of Neck Pain at Home

Do you have neck pain?

Neck pain is one of the most common types of pain, and it can be caused by a variety of things with approximately 20% of adults experiencing it at some point. While there are many possible causes, fortunately, there are also many ways to treat neck pain.

Applying ice or heat

Ice is great at reducing the injury’s initial inflammation and numbing pain. ‎Whereas heat, through its warming properties, aids in relaxing muscles. It also delivers nutrients into the injured area to promote healing. Apply alternating cold and warm compress in the affected area and do it every day for 20 minutes at a time until the pain relieves itself.. Be sure not to apply either method too often or too long as they could cause tissue damage if used for a prolonged period over time. 

You can buy heat packs and ice packs at the store or make them at home from common items such as frozen peas placed in a sock to use as a cold pack. You can also stack rice or oatmeal in a sock and then microwave it to be used as a heat pack.

Give yourself a day or two off

When the muscles in your neck get too tired, they can tighten up and make you more prone to pain. It’s always important that these joints receive enough rest after being worked hard. Avoid moving the neck too much when it is in pain to aid in the healing process. When sleeping, it is best to use a neck memory foam pillow to promote proper curvature of the neck.

A gentle stretch or massage

You can try, little by little, stretching your neck to one side and then the other. If there is an increase in pain, you might be pushing way too much. A little gentle stretching can help you relax your neck as you recover. Also, you can give your neck a light massage or have another person do so for you. As long as it doesn’t cause pain, a massage can help relax muscles and improve blood flow. 

Improved Posture

Whether at home or at work, improving your posture can often help to improve the neck discomfort that you experience.  Examples include positioning yourself in a neutral position so that your neck is not angled while you’re asleep. You can also adjust your computer monitor so that it is in front of you and at eye level.  Another way to improve your posture is to sit in chairs that support your back and neck so that you don’t have to slump or slouch.

Always be cautious

Check with your doctor if your neck pain lasts for more than a couple of weeks. Symptoms such as fever, chills, and nausea are indications of a troubling situation.

Are you experiencing pain in your neck? Our team can help. Book an appointment with us at N8 Family Chiropractic today to schedule an evaluation.

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Reference: 

https://www.spine-health.com/video/video-home-remedies-neck-pain

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-you-have-a-stiff-neck-try-these-simple-remedies/

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/why-does-my-neck-hurt