3 Stretches to Help Reduce Neck Pain

Neck pain can be caused by many different factors, and can be uncomfortable and disruptive to experience. It is often caused by poor posture, stress, or muscle strain, but can be reduced with a few easy stretches. These stretches can help to loosen tight muscles, improve flexibility and range of motion, and relieve tension in our neck and shoulders.

Neck Flexion

Sit or stand up straight with a relaxed posture. Using your right hand, gently pull your head down towards your left knee. You should begin to feel a stretch along the back of your neck and upper spine. Hold this for 20-30 seconds before repeating on the opposite side.

This stretch targets the muscles at the back of your neck, helping to release tightness and improve mobility. This will also help to relieve tension in the upper back and neck, as well as reducing any stiffness caused by poor posture or extended periods of sitting.

Neck Tilt

Sit or stand with a straight back. Use your right hand to to gently pull down onto your right collarbone. Tilt your head, bringing your left ear down towards your left shoulder. You should feel a stretch along the front and side of your neck - hold for 20-30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

This stretch helps loosen up the front muscles of your neck, which can become tight from looking down at screens or hunching over. It can help to reduce tightness in the front of the neck, improve range of motion and posture, and helps to prevent forward head posture.

Head Pull

Sit or stand with a neutral spine. Interlock your hands behind your head, and gently pull your head forward, bringing your chin down towards your spine. You should feel a stretch in the back of your neck and upper spine. As with the first two stretches, hold for 20-30 seconds.

This stretch helps to relieve tightness in the back of the neck and shoulders. It can also reduce headaches caused by neck tensions, and improves flexibility and blood flow to the area. It's great for relieving tension at the base of the skull and the upper neck muscles, which often become tight due to stress and poor posture.

Perform these stretches slowly and gently to help relieve neck pain or strain. Avoid forcing the stretch, as this could make the pain worse. For best results, repeat these stretches regularly - about 2-3 times per day. By making these simple stretches a part of your daily routine, you can reduce neck pain, improve posture, and feel better throughout the day!