A stiff neck is a condition characterized by difficulty in turning your neck along with soreness of the affected part. This may be accompanied with pain in the shoulder, pain in arm, headache and nausea. It is usually caused due to Soft tissue sprain or muscle strain.
Tips to Relieve a Stiff Neck
Other causes of stiff neck include meningitis usually accompanied, with fever, headache and cervical spine disorder.
Usually, stiff neck lasts for a few days or for a week.
A stiff neck is very common and an irritating condition causing discomfort, pain and limits neck movements. Symptoms of stiff neck aggravate when trying to turn your head, making the condition even worse.
Stiff Neck Pain
Stiff neck is not a serious problem, usually it gets better in a few days, but discomfort caused by stiff neck compels you to look for some solutions. This article will provide you with the knowledge of simple and effective ways to get rid of a stiff neck.
You may also take the help of a physiotherapist to learn neck stretching exercises. Do neck stretching exercises 3 to 4 times a day to restore the natural and actual range of neck motion.
Massage with essential oils- Massaging relieves the tension, increases the circulation of blood and thus relaxes the muscles of the neck. Massaging is an easy way to relieve a stiff neck, but it is important to know the correct way to massage.Take essential oil, preferably lavender oil, rosemary, olive oil, mustard oil, coconut oil or pine oil. You may also use tea tree oil and peppermint oil diluted in olive oil. Remember not to use peppermint oil for kids.Now gently massage the affected area in circular motion.
Massage with essential oils
Application of heat- Application of heat not only increases the blood flow and relieves stiff neck but also reduces the soreness. Take an old properly washed small pouch or a clean sock and put some rice into it. Seal the end of the pouch and Heat in short bursts till it gets warm. Now hold it for 15 minutes over the affected area. Repeat this procedure 3 to 4 times a day. Alternatively, you may use a heat pad, hot water bottle or hot towel.
Cold compress- This is effective in reducing the pain by numbing the affected part. Cold compress limits the formation of lactic acid, eliminates soreness and relieve a stiff neck.
Cold compress
Take few ice cubes and wrap it in a cheesecloth. Now press it against the affected area for 15 minutes. You can also use frozen peas in case ice cubes are not available. For best results, repeat this procedure 4 to 5 times in a day. Remember not to apply ice directly to your skin or it may cause a frostbite.
Epsom salt to relieve stiff neck- Take 2 cups of Epson salt and add it to your bathtub filled with water. Now immerse yourself in the bathtub for about 15 minutes. Epson salt has the property to trigger the activity of enzymes and promotes circulation that relaxes muscles and reduces tension. Repeat this procedure 3 times a day for best results. Remember, if you are diabetic or have a kidney problem do not use this method
Apple cider vinegar- Soak a cotton ball with apple cider vinegar and place it over the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. This is an excellent home remedy to relieve a stiff neck.
Apple cider vinegar to get rid of Neck Pain
Celery leaves- Take some celery leaves and grind them to extract the juice. Drink this juice daily to relieve a stiff neck.
Celery leaves
Besides above tips try to stay relaxed, reduce stress, keep yourself hydrated and have proper rest to relieve a stiff neck.