7 Lifestyle Changes to Take Better Care of Your Neck Health

By  //  July 30, 2021

In the era of technology, gadgets, and computers, our necks have indeed suffered from a daunting journey. Problems with your lifestyle, activity levels, and working habits have deteriorated neck health. The neck is an incredibly delicate but essential part of your body.

It serves as a home for the arteries that carry blood from your heart to your brain, making it much more than a simple pedestal for your head. From your energy levels to immunity, everything depends on the health of your neck. 

Your neck is a fundamental body part since it is what connects our heads to our bodies. In any case, if your neck is damaged, it can completely rupture your ability to live a healthy life.  

Exercises for neck mobility can improve your flexibility, mobility, and range of motion. Additionally, addressing your joints from the neck down helps improve your overall posture while relieving stress and tension.

How to Take Care of Neck Health?

If you are looking for ways to improve neck health, here are some handy tips to help you:

Improve Your Posture 

Everything begins at home. If you want to improve your neck strength, it is imperative to make changes in your posture. 

  • The way you sit matters a lot when it comes to spinal health. Avoid slouching when you sit in front of your computer. People who sit for several hours in front of a screen usually hunch down, and that puts an intense amount of pressure on your neck. 
  • If you have to sit for a prolonged time, consider taking a 10-minute break to massage your neck muscles. 
  • Lift heavy objects with your knees without putting any pressure on the neck. Sitting for hours and hours is really dangerous for your overall health. 
  • We recommend that you take at least 1 hour for a brisk walk that will help you decompress the spine. 

Buy Supportive Pillows 

The pillow we sleep on plays a significant role in the strength of our neck. An unsupportive pillow can cause severe neck pain. Now, your goal is to find a pillow that keeps the neck position neutral. 

  • Soft or hard pillows can lead to spinal complications and changes in posture. Other than this, the curve in your neck is unable to handle intense pressure from this position. 
  • The best pillows to support your neck and shoulder are able to hold your neck at a proper angle. Most people have found latex, memory foam, feather, or buckwheat pillows very comfortable. They are known to offer the best support and balance to your neck and spine. 

Consider Getting Regular Chiropractic Treatment 

Chiropractic care is a popular alternate care method that allows people to get neuromusculoskeletal adjustments without the use of any drugs or surgery. 

  • Usually, a chiropractor performs spinal adjustments and manipulations by using their hands, but in extreme cases, they may use massage guns or x-rays to help your condition. 
  • If you feel stiffness in your neck or a restricted range of motion, there are chances that your body is in need of a professional chiropractor. 
  • Cervical spine decompression creates pressure, which leads to herniated discs, which may be excruciatingly painful. 
  • Traumatic injury and poor posture are two major causes of this issue, which are just a few of the reasons you may seek chiropractic care. 
  • Your chiropractor will reduce inflammation, increase the restricted range of motion, maintain balance while decreasing neck pain.

Perform Relaxation Exercises

Relaxation techniques are essential if you want to relieve stress and relax your muscles. They also help you prevent neck pain. There are different relaxation techniques that we will discuss:

  • Sit with your spine straight and take slow deep breaths. Release your breath slowly to relieve your lungs. 
  • Play soothing music in a well-lit room and meditate. Meditation exercises paired with yoga can help you alleviate strained muscles. 
  • Avoid drinks full of caffeine like coffee and alcohol. Instead, drink herbal teas, fresh juices, and plain water. 
  • Soaking in a warm salty bath can help you soothe muscular tension. 

Get A Neck and Shoulder Massage 

Neck and shoulder discomfort is frequently linked with headaches. You will experience a limited range of motion, a “crunching” feeling while moving your head, and, of course, tenderness in severe cases. 

  • There are a lot of muscles and soft tissues around the neck. It is critical to protect and relieve the neck. Getting a massage is regarded as one of the most effective treatments for cases like shoulder pain after a car accident
  • The primary goal of neck and shoulder massage is to relieve muscle tension and spasms, enhance circulation, and promote relaxation.
  • Trigger Point Massage, Integrative Reflexology, and Deep Tissue Massage are some really common types of neck massages. 

Handle Sports and Activity Sensibly 

Most people suffer from discomfort in their necks because of sports and exercise. This is why neck injuries are common among athletes. If you want to prevent yourself, here are some tips: 

  • Warm-up and cool down for 10 minutes before exercising or playing any sport. Your warm-up and cool-down should consist of movements that target every part of your body. 
  • Wear proper gear when playing contact sports such as hockey, cricket, and basketball. 
  • If you are an amateur in sports and exercise, make sure to start from basic activities to avoid intense pressure on your neck and spine. 

Exercise Regularly 

For some people, exercise might be a way to lose extra fat. However, most of us don’t understand the importance of regular exercise. Other than burning excess fat, exercising also strengthens your muscles. Ever wished having a ripped neck like your fitness trainer? Not only does exercise make your neck look good, but it will also strengthen it. 

  • Stretching exercises are really helpful whether you have suffered from a neck injury in a car accident or are prone to sitting in front of a computer for very long hours. 
  • Exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight that not only keeps your health at an optimal stage but also alleviates any unwanted pressure from the neck. 
  • Make sure that you keep your neck straight when lifting weights to avoid whiplash. 

Conclusion 

Human next is practically the most important part that helps keep your head attached to the body. To maintain a healthy posture, taking regular care of your neck is extremely important. By taking simple precautions, regular checkups at the chiropractor, and adequate exercise, you can build neck health and live a healthy life. Other than this, supportive pillows and mattresses also play a key role in keeping your spine aligned, so make sure to buy ones that are not too hard, neither too soft.