Simple Ways to Ease Neck Pain

Oct 12, 2016

Man in His Car Pressing Against His Neck with His Hand | AICA JonesbororAuto accidents are a pain in the neck—in more than one sense! Long after you’ve left the collision site, you may experience lingering discomfort in your cervical spine and the surrounding soft tissues. It’s very common to experience neck pain after a car accident, but there are some simple methods for alleviating the symptoms of whiplash.

Your Jonesboro chiropractor can help rule out any serious injuries and offer a treatment plan to support your recovery. Here are some additional ways you can ease the pain in your neck.

 

Massage Therapy

While many people consider massages a luxury, therapeutic massages performed by a licensed massage therapist often reduce or eliminate mild to moderate neck pain. Along with regular chiropractic care, massage therapy can treat accident-related injuries by removing toxins and improving joint mobility, all while relaxing stiff muscles.

Some insurance companies even offer reimbursement for massage therapy, especially when the treatment is targeting injuries due to auto accidents. In most cases, insurance companies will only offer reimbursement for massage therapy if you’ve received a referral from your chiropractor.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, consider requesting a referral for a massage therapist from your chiropractor, and check with your insurance provider to see if your plan covers this service. Your chiropractor will also be able to rule out any serious injuries and make sure it’s safe for you to begin receiving therapeutic massage.

Lifestyle Habits

Maintaining good posture is important for keeping neck pain at bay. Regularly hunching at the computer can inhibit your recovery after an accident and aggravate already-sore muscles. If you spend a significant amount of time at the computer, ensure that the screen sits at eye-level. You may also want to adjust your chair so that you can easily sit with back straight and feet flat on the floor, while looking straight ahead.

Considering your sleeping habits and investing in a quality pillow can not only alleviate your neck discomfort but also help you reach deeper, more rejuvenating levels of sleep. If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, or waking up with a sore neck, ask your chiropractor to recommend the right pillow for you based on your preferred sleeping position.

Stretching

Incorporating gentle stretches into your daily routine can reduce neck pain and stiffness while increasing mobility. Consider supporting your chiropractic therapy by repeating these stretches 3-5 times each day.

1. With your eyes looking forward, gently pull your head straight back and slowly return to a neutral position.
2. Guide your chin toward your chest by clasping your hands behind your head and gently pressing downward. Return to neutral.
3. To the point that it’s comfortable, tilt your head back and point your chin toward the ceiling before returning to a neutral position.
4. Rotate your head until your nose is over your left shoulder and then return to a neutral position. Repeat on the right side.
5. With your left hand, reach over the top of your head and gently pull your left ear down towards your left shoulder. Repeat for the right side.

Don’t Let Your Accident be a Pain in the Neck

If you’re concerned about your neck pain, our chiropractors can ease your mind, along with your discomfort. Schedule a consultation with your AICA Jonesboro Chiropractic Clinic today!

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