Neck pain is one of the most common injuries we see at Muscle Freedom. With more jobs and lifestyle choices that involve sitting in the same position for hours on end it is no wonder that neck pain is so common.
The human body is not designed to be stuck in the same position for hours on end without moving. Muscles are designed to continually move which is how the nutrients, oxygen and blood supply is spread throughout the muscle. Sitting in the same position, like sitting at a computer desk, irritates the muscles in the neck and shoulder because they have to continually contract in a static position.
Common Causes for Neck tension:
- Unsupported seating and forward leaning for long periods.
- Computer monitor height not at eye level and/or too far to the side.
- Holding a phone between the neck and shoulder.
- Incorrect pillow size.
- Sleeping on your stomach.
- Repeated head tilting to look at documents.
- Using a keyboard with unsupported elbows and forearms.
Two ways to prevent and treat neck pain.
Massage therapy – Proper massage therapy will address the issue at the source by softening and lengthening the neck muscles and fascia to restore balance and movement to your neck. As your muscle release the pressure on your cervical spine decreases and your head will feel lighter and your neck rotation will improve.
Correct seating posture – Ergonomically setting up your workstation can greatly decrease your chances of neck pain but it’s not a quick fix for muscle tightness. Stretching, exercise and massage therapy are very important to maintain healthy muscles.
Choosing the correct pillow
Choosing the right pillow to support your neck is very important. Side laying sleepers need a pillow that will support your neck and is fitted to keep your spine as straight as possible. This will help to relieve muscle tension around your neck, relax the shoulder and correctly position the head. Back sleepers will need a pillow that supports the cervical curve but isn’t too high that it will compress the anterior muscle at the front of the neck.
