Suffering from Neck Stiffness?

We’ve all felt neck stiffness at one point – whether you feel it when waking up in the morning, after a long day of working, or during a stressful day. It’s an uncomfortable, yet common, occurrence that can impact your daily life.

A stiff neck can be caused by a misuse of muscles in your neck area. Prolonged uncomfortable positions or improper stretching can cause an overworked neck joint to pinch a muscle or nerve which places additional stress on your spine causing pressure and pain to your joints.

Common Causes of Neck Stiffness

It’s important to be mindful of how you’re treating your neck muscles to avoid neck stiffness. There are a few common reasons someone may suffer a stiff neck:

Poor Posture

Poor posture can gradually pull at your neck muscles causing stiffness and pain. Focusing on improving your posture or wearing a posture-correcting device can help combat stiff or strained neck muscles.

Sleeping incorrectly

Sleeping in an awkward position is a common cause of neck stiffness. Your head, neck, and spine should remain in alignment while sleeping – you should use a flat pillow or a larger pillow depending on which position you sleep in.

Whiplash

Accidents that cause the head to suddenly jerk forward and backward can cause damage to the muscles, bones, and nerves in your neck which leads to pain and stiffness in the neck.

Prolonged periods of looking at our devices

Also known as “text/tech neck” which is caused by looking down at a smartphone or tablet for long periods of time. Looking down can cause strain as your neck muscles work to hold up your head; this has become a common cause of neck pain.

Sitting for long periods of time

Working in front of a computer or driving for a long time can put pressure on our spines and cause strain to our muscles. Taking regular breaks to stand and improving posture will help to avoid pain and stiff necks.

Treatments for Neck Stiffness

There’s nothing fun about suffering from a stiff neck – thankfully, there are ways to treat it!

Improving your sleeping arrangement

Optimizing your sleep situation can drastically improve neck pain, and even back pain. A comfortable, supportive mattress is important for proper spinal alignment. Pillows with the correct size and firmness will also keep your neck muscles from straining.

Stretching and exercises

Properly stretching and exercising your neck will strengthen the muscles that support your head and neck. This can help to prevent a stiff neck from recurring as well as reduce pain.

Massage

Massage therapy is a great way to release tension from sore muscles.  Working with a massage therapist will guide you to feeling better and relieving a stiff neck in no time!

Visit your chiropractor

Chiropractic care is one of the best options for anyone if they are experiencing pain. Realigning your spine can promote healing and lead to pain relief. Chiropractors will examine the cause of your pain and proceed with the course of treatment that works best for you. Chiropractors may provide you with stretches and exercises or lifestyle adjustments to ensure your neck stiffness stays away.

When it comes to neck stiffness and joint pain, don’t ignore the issue! Visit our specialists at Absolute Chiropractic Wellness Centre to find the best treatment plan to reduce your pain! Whether the cause is from awkward sleep positions or “tech neck” we can help!