Remedies for Chronic Neck Pain

Approximately 80 percent of people experience chronic neck pain at some point in their lives. If you have been dealing with neck pain that lasts for three or more months, it is considered chronic. At East Coast Spine and Sport in Hanover, our chiropractor specializes in treating chronic neck pain and other related problems. Consider trying some of these home remedies:

Improve Your Posture

Poor posture and sleeping in awkward positions can contribute to chronic neck pain. Whether your pain is simple or chronic, it is crucial to improve your posture. This involves ensuring proper back support and keeping your neck and head upright and aligned. For example, when sitting at a desk, make sure your computer is at eye level. Also, avoid slumping on a sofa when lounging.

Take Rest for a Couple of Days

Taking some time to rest can provide relief from strenuous exercise and help alleviate neck pain. However, excessive rest can weaken your muscles and make you more prone to injuries once you recover. It is recommended to rest for one to two days and then gradually return to your day-to-day activities.

Practice Meditation and Mindfulness

Chronic pain can have psychological effects and lead to negative emotions. Your chiropractor may suggest relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga to help you focus less on pain and increase your sense of calm. Additionally, practicing mindfulness on a daily basis can enhance your awareness and tolerance in a healthy manner, enabling you to better cope with worrisome or negative thoughts.

Incorporate Exercise into Your Routine

You can engage in exercises at home to aid in pain reduction and restore nerve and muscle function. However, high-impact exercises like mountain biking and aerobics can increase the risk of injury. It's important not to overdo it and pay attention to any pain you may experience. Try incorporating low-impact aerobic and cardio exercises into your routine, such as yoga, walking, swimming, rowing, and stationary cycling.

Adjust Your Diet

A chiropractic professional may recommend dietary changes if certain foods negatively affect your neck or back. For instance, eliminating or reducing inflammatory foods from your diet can help alleviate pain and inflammation. Inflammatory foods to avoid include fried foods, processed and red meats, pasta, white bread, high-fructose corn syrup, chips, cookies, lard, sugary beverages like soda, and others. Instead, focus on incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, such as blueberries, collards, spinach, kale, cherries, oranges, tomatoes, olive oil, almonds, walnuts, and more.

Consult a Chiropractic Professional

If you're uncertain about the next steps to take, our chiropractor at East Coast Spine and Sport in Hanover is here to help. Contact our team today at (781) 336-9341 to learn more or schedule an appointment.