Preventing a Stiff Neck
- Category: Sports Medicine
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Preventing Tension in Your Neck
We're all familiar with that twinge of pain that comes with waking up with a stiff neck. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to prevent this painful problem.
Work On Your Posture
While everyone is guilty of slouching from time to time, maintaining bad posture can be the source of the kink in your neck. When you don't have proper posture, your spine is out of alignment, and additional strain is being placed on your neck and back.
To practice better posture, be sure to keep your head, shoulder, and hips stacked on top of one another. If you stand or sit throughout your workday, also be sure to adjust your posture throughout the day, getting up to stretch about once every hour.
Use Your Phone at Eye-Level
While using our cell phones is an excellent way to stay connected and entertained throughout the day, the ways you use it can lead to increased strain on your neck. Many people hold their phones at about elbow-level when scrolling through social media or reading, which places your neck in an awkward position that can lead to muscle strain.
Try bringing your phone up to eye-level when using it rather than bringing your gaze down toward your lap.
Support Your Neck at Night
When getting sleep at night, it is important to properly support your head and neck to keep your spine in its natural alignment. When you sleep with your spine out of alignment, it can cause pain along your spine, including your neck.
Whether you're a side or back-sleeper, try to use a pillow that supports your neck's natural curve and avoid those that are too firm.
