Is It Time to See a Doctor About Your Neck Pain?

In our modern times, where we are constantly required to sit for the vast majority of our day, it is extremely common to experience pain and tension in the neck. Usually this strain and tension will go away within a few days and does not require a doctor’s attention. If you are seeking neck pain relief, you have come to the right place. Consider this your guide to treating your neck pain and getting the medical attention you need.

If your neck pain is fairly recent, for instance if it is caused from a hard workout or from a sedentary lifestyle, the following are a couple of self-care remedies for treating neck pain.

Massage – Even if you cannot talk a friend or family member into giving you a neck and shoulder rub, it is fairly easy to massage the sore places on your neck yourself.

Ice and Heat Cycles – Alternating with an ice pack and a heating pad, or frozen peas and a hot shower or bath is an ideal way to relax your tight and strained muscles.

Stretching and Strengthening – Tension in the neck can often be relieved by stretching the neck from the front, back and sides. If you spend a lot of your time sitting, you may be suffering from forward head, which may require you to strengthen the neck muscles.

One of the best ways to do this is to perform the superman exercise. Simply lie facedown with your hands above your head. Contract your neck and back muscles to raise your feet and hands off the ground. Hold the contraction for 3-5 seconds, and then release. Repeat for 5-10 repetitions.

When to See a Doctor

You need to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you experience neck pain that does not get better after using any of the at-home remedies above, or if your symptoms last for longer than a few weeks. Additionally, if the pain radiates down your arms, torso, and legs it could be a signal of a deeper underlying heart problem.

For more information on how to find neck pain relief through osteopathic treatment, go to DrMcReynolds.com now!