
Pain in the Neck
A painful stiff neck with difficulty moving is often the result of a tight levator scapular.
This incredible muscle located deep underneath the trapezius has
several actions. It elevates the scapula, rotates the scapula downward
and laterally flexes the head and neck. No wonder it hurts! Common
causes of pain are long phone calls, driving, sitting at a computer for
long periods of time, tennis, swimming and, of course, stress. Applying
heat, stretching, changing positions often and getting a massage are
easy ways to relieve the pain.
Simple effective stretches can help quickly.
First Stretch:
You will feel a stretch along the back of your neck
- Place right hand behind back
(being handcuffed)
- Look down toward your left foot
(chin to chest)
- Gently pull your head in that same direction with your left hand
- Repeat on opposite side.
Second stretch
- Reach behind your back holding the right wrist with the left hand
- Slightly pull arm down and bend head to the left and hold for 20 seconds
Also hot packs applied on the neck and shoulder area are very effective in releasing muscles stiffness. |