Neck pain can be described as burning, aching and frequent immobility and stiffness in the neck. Neck pain can also radiate from the shoulders and down the arms. Causes of neck pain include degenerative disc, trauma (such as from a car accident) or chronic stress (repetitive motion that puts stress and strain of the muscles and tendons).
Acupressure and Acupuncture
Manipulating and massaging acupressure points can alleviate chronic pain conditions by promoting the release of endorphins, which are our body's own natural pain relievers. Acupuncture can help teach the body to be healthy again and alleviate pain and by blocking the pain signal to the brain, thereby interrupting the message of pain along the pathway.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy uses a combination of treatments, such as neck pain exercises and manipulation of soft tissues and muscles to help successfully treat neck pain. Studies have shown that a combination of physical therapy and exercise can bring pain relief, but those afflicted were also less likely to need additional care.
Body Movement Therapies
Hatha yoga, Feldenkrais and Breema are body moment therapies whose aim is to improve posture, stimulate the body's healing energies and improve flexibility, thereby alleviating any underlying problems that might be exacerbating neck pain.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a form of massage that concentrates on specific points of the feet that correlate to areas of the body. Located in the first transverse zone of the foot, the cervical spine reflex is located on the outside of the big toe just above the joint of the foot.
TENS
TENS is a form of electroanalgesia frequently used to treat neck pain. TENS not only helps to break the signal of pain on its way to the brain, but it helps to stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's own pain relievers. A study published in 2009 found that TENS was a beneficial complementary treatment for people with pain.
Therapeutic Ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound utilizes a much higher frequency of sound than imaging ultrasound. The energy therapeutic ultrasound generates creates heat that helps to eliminate pain, improve circulation (which can rush nutrients and oxygen to the injured/painful area thereby promote healing) and reduce inflammation.
Tips for a Healthy Neck
Keep a good posture. Certain activities, such as sitting, your ears should be line up with your shoulders to help prevent strain on your neck.
Take breaks often when working at a computer, try stretching and gently moving your head from side to side to help break up tension in the neck and shoulders.
Don't sleep on your stomach. This places too great a strain on the neck and can aggravate neck pain.
Avoid contour type neck pillows if you sleep on your side. This places your neck at too great an angle, which can exacerbate neck pain.
Sleep with your head and neck in a neutral position, using neither too thick, nor too thin of a pillow. A good pillow should support your head and neck but won't force your head too far forward, or tip your head too far back.
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