9 Home Remedies And Treatments That Effectively Alleviate Neck Pain
By Catherine M, Staff Editor
Last Updated on May 24th, 2023 / Published on April 20, 2023
Are you suffering from neck pain? Well, this condition is not uncommon, and a huge population suffers from the same. The ache in the neck can be triggered at any point in our life, and there can be a slew of reasons that cause this condition. From a poor posture to an injury or even an underlying medical condition, there are several possibilities. Neck pain can be mild to severe; however, it equally disrupts your daily lifestyle and can be very frustrating.
If the neck pain is a result of a serious injury or medical condition, one should undergo treatment and take appropriate medication. However, if the neck pain is chronic, medication will not always provide relief. Here are common kinds of home remedies and treatments that will combat neck pain and bring relief.
Acupuncture – Acupuncture is an ancient method that is used to treat pain. This practice is found to be extremely beneficial in treating neck pain that is caused by strain or muscle pull. It has been found to show better results than medication and other kinds of therapy. Acupuncture comprises the use of extremely thin needles that are placed in a right combination of the 2000 body points to correct the flow of energy. However, this therapy only brings relief after a few sessions and calls for a little patience. Results are not experienced immediately, but it does have an effect in alleviating pain.
Pilates – Pilates is an exercise that helps stretch out the neck and spin, thereby increasing strength in the overall body. It has been found that practicing Pilates daily can bring about significant relief in neck pain, especially for people who suffer from a chronic condition. While undergoing pilates, one will realize that every part of the body is connected and a small movement of the body can impact the spine and neck. The lengthening of the muscles in the spine and neck are excellent for combating and treating neck pain.
Massage – Massaging the neck carefully is found to be very effective in easing out the tension of the muscles and the swollen nerves. It also aids in breaking up the fascia in the neck. The neck and the head are intertwined, regular massage will decrease the chance of pulling or straining muscles in the future.
Hydration – While this is not a treatment, keeping the body well-hydrated is one of the most important ways to get rid of neck pain. It also prevents the occurrence of pain in the future. The vertebrae in the spine require water to ease the pressure and maintain alignment of the spine.
The right pillow – For many people, neck pain is caused due to a wrong posture during the sleeping hours. Sleeping in an uncomfortable position while using the wrong kind of pillow. It is essential to change the sleeping position on to the side or the back. Also, using the right kind of pillow will help in keeping the body well-aligned. Use a memory foam or feather pillow and avoid stacking pillows as it contributes to the stiffening of the neck.
Stretching – We always loved the feeling that comes after thoroughly stretching the body parts. Some good stretching can also help in bringing neck pain relief. Regularly pull the neck and stretch the spine to aid in the flow of oxygen naturally detoxify the body.
Go swimming – Swimming is an activity that is found to have a great effect in providing quick neck pain relief and easing stiffness. It works on reducing the inflammation and acts as an aerobic exercise. However, for some, this may be strenuous on the neck, and it is better to consult the physician before going ahead with the same.
Pain relieving medication – If the neck pain is excruciating, there are pain relieving medication that will have to be taken to treat the same. Drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are used to reduce inflammation and thereby bring relief in pain. Acetaminophen too is a common medication that is used to treat neck pain. However, these medications should be taken in proportion and after carefully understanding the side effects.
Muscle relaxants – These relaxants are used to soothe the strain of the neck muscles. This may be prescribed by the physician when the pain is extreme.
Chiropractic – This procedure is performed mainly on the spine. Chiropractic involves the application of controlled force to a joint. This treatment can also be performed on the neck and can provide relief from pain with fewer risks.
The above home remedies and treatments have been found to have an excellent effect in relieving neck pain. When undergoing medical treatment, one must follow-up with the doctor and follow the recommendations thoroughly to recover quickly.
However, sometimes there may be a requirement for surgery or more complex treatment if the pain is triggered by a more serious condition. If the neck does not respond to most common treatments, then chiropractors can work by adjusting the spine. However, you must find a professional who is recommended by a trusted person.