Chronic neck pain can impact your quality of life by making it hard to focus or get comfortable. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to help manage neck pain at home. Stretching can reduce much of the tension that contributes to discomfort. Learn more about several low-impact stretches you can use to loosen tense muscles in your back, neck, and head.

A Guide to Stretches for Neck Pain

1. Side Neck Releases

Either sitting or standing, look straight ahead and slowly tilt your head to one side. Stop as soon as you feel tension, and rest while you stretch the muscles on the extended side of your neck.

You can gradually let your head tilt further or apply gentle pressure with your hand for a deeper stretch. Slowly lift your head after 30 seconds and do the same on the other side.

2. Bridges

Yoga teaches many poses that stretch the neck, including the bridge. Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and pointed toward the ceiling.

Press your palms to the ground and slowly lift your pelvis toward the ceiling until you feel a stretch up your back and into your neck. Hold, and rock side to side or forward and back to release tension in the area. Rest after 30 seconds and repeat as needed.

3. Forward Neck Pull

This stretch is perfect if you experience neck pain after long hours at the computer. Sit up straight in your chair and let your chin slowly fall toward your chest. Clasp your hands behind your head and draw your head forward.

You should feel this stretch from the base of your skull all the way into your upper back. Hold for 30 seconds and release. Try alternating sets of this stretch with side neck releases for comprehensive relief.

If your neck pain persists, contact the experienced chiropractors at Smith Chiropractic Clinic in Concord, NC. Since 1978, Dr. Andy Smith has been committed to long-term pain relief and injury prevention. He and his team can resolve back pain, neck pain, and a number of other ailments through a combination of functional medicine, holistic treatment, and chiropractic services. Learn more on the website or call (704) 788-3126 to schedule an appointment. You can receive more health tips by connecting on Facebook.