A painful, stiff, or otherwise uncomfortable neck is an issue that many people will have to deal with at one time or another. According to the CDC, about 20% of women and 15% of men have had neck pain in the last three months. The single best step you can take to address neck issues is to see a pain management specialist. With that said, there are some helpful home remedies that can benefit and better support your treatment plan with a pain professional; below, a few of these options are discussed in more detail.

The Top Tips for Alleviating Daily Neck Pain

1. Do Some Gentle Exercise

Easy, low-impact exercises that target the neck can go a long way in reducing neck pain and discomfort. Specifically: stretching. Slowly and without pushing your body too far, roll your shoulders back 10 times, or, alternately, squeeze your shoulder blades together 10 times. You might also tilt your head gently back into your clasped hands and hold it there for 30 seconds. If you're feeling particularly ambitious, try to gingerly lower each ear to the corresponding shoulder, 10 times on each side. For those not into stretching, swimming is another excellent option for introducing more mobility into the neck, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain.

2. Sleep on Your Back or Side

When a person sleeps on their stomach, their body has to twist into some awkward and unnatural positions to support the head. Unfortunately, the neck usually takes the brunt of these contortions and new or exacerbated neck pain can result. Aim to sleep on your back or side to avoid making sleep an altogether miserable experience for your neck.

3. Watch How You Hold Your Phone

Smartphones are excellent tools to keep one connected with work, home, and leisure activities. But be mindful of how you're cradling your phone when you're talking on it. Parking it between the ear and neck can result in new or worsening neck pain. The best course of action is to use the speakerphone option as much as possible.

If you're struggling with neck pain, trust O'Fallon Pain Relief Associates to help you find the path to a more comfortable life. They provide pain relief and chiropractic services to the St. Charles County, MO, area. Call (636) 978-3000, visit them online, or message them on Facebook or Twitter to schedule an appointment today.