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Grandma's Neck Pain Relief &
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When neck pain strikes, stretching and natural healing methods that increase blood flow to the muscles can provide neck pain relief. Strengthening exercises, proper posture and gentle stretching can prevent neck problems.
The average adult head weighs eight pounds, and the weight is supported entirely by the muscles in the neck and upper back. It's not surprising, then, that neck pain is one of the most common complaints.
Many habits and activities that are a part of daily life put stress and strain on neck muscles, tendons and ligaments. Sitting too long in a car or at a desk, working on a computer, having poor posture or bad sleeping position, toting unbalanced heavy loads and reacting to stress and tension all place a great demand on the neck structures. As a result some muscles can atrophy tendons can shorten and ligaments can lose their tensile strength. The neck muscles then go into spasm, causing not only neck problems, but also headaches and radiating pain in the arms and shoulders.
The Muscles of the Neck
- Sternomastoid
- Upper trapezius
- Middle trapezius
- Lower trapezius
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Natural Neck Pain Relief
Oils, Moist Heat and Exercise
A variety of natural healing techniques are effective for neck pain relief and tension, including heat applications, massage, stretching exercises and rest. In addition, regular exercise to strengthen neck muscles can help to prevent neck pain from developing in the first place. Swimming is a particularly good choice because it is a gentle strengthening exercise.
Rosemary Oil for Neck Pain Relief
Applied externally, rosemary essential oil warms the neck muscles and enhances blood flow (vasoditation). In the palm of your hand, blend 5 drops of rosemary oil with a small amount of sweet almond, avocado or jojoba oil or you could use olive oil. Next, massage the mixture into your stiff or sore neck. Finally, wrap your neck in a warm scarf for a few hours to extend the healing effect.
Heat Increase Blood Flow
Heat packs, or better yet, hot-water bottles, massage, mud packs, a warm bath, some time in a sauna, or an arnica-essence wrap can alleviate neck pain. These methods warm the muscles and promote vasodilation. However, heat should not be applied when the neck injure is acute or in circumstances when the muscles might be inflamed.
Isometric Exercises Releases Tension
To alleviate a neck spasm, clasp your hands together behind your head and press your head firmly against your hands for 5 seconds; then relax the pressure. Next bend your head forward and apply gentle pressure with your hands for 10 seconds. Do not force your head too far forward and stop if you feel any pain. Repeat this exercise five times or more, if needed.
Gentle Stretches Relax Muscles
Carefully bend your head to the right and hold for 10 seconds as though you were trying to touch your shoulder with your ear. Gently roll your head forward and to the left and repeat the stretch. Next, shrug your shoulders, hold for a few seconds and then release.
Essential Oils Alleviate the Pain
Essential oils from camellia, lavender and juniper ease muscle pain while helping to relieve stress at the same time. Add 3 drops of each of these essences to a diffuser. Perform stretching exercises as you inhale the aroma.
Peppermint Oil
The menthol in peppermint oil can provide neck pain relief. Blend 2 drops of peppermint oil with sweet almond oil and rub into the painful areas of your neck.
Moist Heat Provides Neck Pain Relief
Heat can be soothing to neck muscles in spasm, and moist heat deeply penetrates the muscles. Simply wrap a hot-water bottle in a damp towel and apply moist heat to the neck and leave in place for 15-20 minutes.
A Wrap and Massage
An arnica-essence wrap
- 2 tablespoons tincture of arnica
- 2 cups of water
- 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
Soak a cotton cloth in the solution. Squeeze out the excess and put the cloth on your neck. Cover with a dry cloth and leave it o for half an hour. (Note: To determine whether you are allergic to arnica, first apply a small amount of the solution to the inside of one arm or wrist, like you would a dab of perfume).
A Relaxing Massage Oil
- 1 ounce St. John's-wort oil
- 2 drops angelica oil
- 1 drop bay oil
- 2 drops lemon-balm oil
- 7 drops sage oil
Before applying to skin, dilute the mix with a few drops of base oil, such as jojoba or avocado. Use your fingertips to massage a small amount into your neck. Begin at the bottom and move slowly. Afterward, keep your neck warm with a scarf.
Avoid Cervical Pain
When on the phone; do not cradle the receiver between your shoulder and ear. Consider using a hands-free headset.
When sleeping; do not sleep on your stomach; instead like on your side with your knees bent.
When riding in a car; place a pillow behind your neck to provide support.
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DISCLAIMER:
The statement's made here have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure or prevent any disease. This notice is required by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
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