Focus Physical Therapy

7 TIPS TO AVOID NECK PAIN

AND THE NO. 1 BEST EXERCISE FOR NECK PAIN

Whether your neck pain is from a chronic condition or you’ve just woken up with a stiff neck, these tips should help you experience less pain. 1. Sleep on your back (ideal) or on your side, but avoid sleeping on your stomach. 2. Make sure your computer monitor is at eye level. 3. Stop looking down when texting or surfing the internet. Put your phone away (never thought I’d be saying this). 4. Exercise and stretch — keeping your body moving is a must. 5. Keep yourself hydrated. Drink lots of water (the discs in your neck are mostly made up of water). 6. Carry weight evenly (backpacks, purses, luggage, etc.). 7. Maintain good posture (avoid slumping, especially when sitting, driving, or watching TV). A probable suspect of neck pain that often gets missed is the thoracic spine. To see the No. 1 best exercise to avoid or improve neck pain, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/ focusphysicaltherapyrsm and click on the ‘No. 1 best exercise for neck pain’ video.

Neck pain is a very common complaint that, at any given time, affects about 13 percent of American adults (women more than men). Most of us have, at least one point, woken up with a stiff neck, or had an injury or event that resulted in neck pain.

Neck pain is usually the result of strain to the soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and/or ligaments) of the neck (cervical spine). This may result from underlying neck problems, such as arthritis, disc degeneration, poor posture, or trauma, but it often occurs for no obvious or identifiable reason.

MEMES

Sensational Summer Salad

It’s officially the season of salads, and fruit salads are summer’s specialty! Enjoy this tasty dish as a side or main course. For some added protein, toss in a handful of slivered almonds or chopped pecans.

Ingredients

• 1 heaping tablespoon fresh basil or mint, chopped • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 1 tablespoon maple syrup • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

• 1 pound strawberries, thinly sliced • 3 medium peaches, thinly sliced • 1 cup blueberries

Instructions

1. In a medium serving bowl, combine the strawberries, peaches, blueberries, and basil. 2. Drizzle lemon juice, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar on top. 3. Gently toss to combine. 4. Serve immediately, or chill for later.

Recipe inspired by CookieAndKate.com.

Focus Physical Therapy • Call 949.709.8770 • 3

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