Neck Pain Relief Between Visits

Most Americans who deal with neck pain face a lot of visits to their chiropractor each year. But, sadly, you cannot live at your chiropractor's office or see them around the clock. So what do you need to do if you experience neck pain and cannot visit your chiropractor? Here's how to stretch the neck and when to use ice or heat for relief.

How to Stretch the Neck

You need to get moving if you are experiencing neck pain due to muscle tension. You can try moving your head slowly clockwise in a circle, then reverse it. In addition, move your neck by looking over your right shoulder, then over your left shoulder, and finally by looking down and up. With each repetition, try extending your head a little farther. Just make sure you don't go too far. When you have a muscle sprain or strain, these moves may feel uncomfortable initially, but they shouldn't be painful. So if they are, stop. Instead, spend a few minutes stretching your muscles, and hopefully, you will be able to experience some neck pain relief.

Know When to Use Ice or Heat

Cold Therapy

It is important to know when to use ice or heat to make sure your injuries are exacerbated. Ice is the best remedy for inflammation. A cold compress will help reduce pain by constricting the blood vessels, which will help fight inflammation and accelerate healing. Cold therapy should be used as soon as possible, in 15 to 20 minutes, then left off for 30 to 40 minutes before reapplying. Use a cold compress wrapped in a thin towel to protect your skin. Always place something between your skin and the compress to protect it from the cold.

Heat Therapy

An acute injury should not be treated with heat therapy, as it may exacerbate inflammation. However, heat therapy can help relieve chronic neck pain by increasing blood flow to the area, thereby relaxing muscles and restoring range of motion.

Schedule an Appointment With Williamsburg Chiropractic

Since 2002, Williamsburg Chiropractic has helped people of Brooklyn find neck pain relief through chiropractic care. For more tips on how to stretch the neck or when to use ice or heat, schedule an appointment today and let us help you!