LIFE DOESN’T HAVE TO BE A PAIN IN THE NECK (Continued from Outside)
Neck Pain 101 In many situations, pain that develops in the neck can be associated with one of two major problems. The first problem is upper-back pain that begins to radiate into the neck. Arthritis is the second of the major problems. The good news is that physical therapy can be used to address both types of neck pain. Cervical arthritis causes frequent aches in the neck and shoulders. This pain is generally worse when there are sudden changes in weather or at the end of the day, and while over-the-counter medication may make the pain less severe, it won’t eliminate the pain entirely. The biggest problem posed by cervical arthritis is that the pain will typically cause a loss of range of motion in the neck, which actually increases your risk of injury as a result of a sudden movement and causes regular discomfort and frustration as you are not able to utilize your neck in the way you normally could. There are plenty of situations in which pain in the neck as a result of cervical arthritis grows so severe that it can cause chronic poor posture and even a reduction in height.
Addressing the Core Problem The majority of neck and head pain can be helped with one simple strategy: strength building. It frequently happens that the absolute cause of the start of a pain in the neck or head is a result of poor posture or quickened motion, and building core strength, as well as strength in the neck, can make a huge difference in your ability to handle tasks without experiencing chronic pain. Keep in mind that the neck and head are sensitive areas, so attempting to treat the pain at home can be dangerous and may not be effective. Working with a physical therapist is a safe way to ensure that you are practicing positive techniques to find relief from your aches and pains.
Call your physical therapist at our San Anselmo (415-457- 4454) or Novato (415-898-1311) clinics today or visit our website at www.sstmarin.com. We can help you achieve freedom from your neck pain.
M A I N T A I N EXERC I SE ESSENT I ALS TRY THIS EXERCISE TO BUILD LOWER BODY STRENGTH
e
Redeem This Coupon for a FREE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT SCREENING! The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) examines seven fundamental movement patterns that make basic function possible. The FMS readily identifies functional limitations and asymmetries that can reduce the effects of functional training and physical conditioning and distort body awareness. We help you achieve optimal motion. Call us today for your Free Screening!
Exercises copyright of
Lunge and Twist Step forward with one leg. Bend your front knee as you allow your back leg to bend, and lower yourself until your forward knee is about 90 degrees. Once in this position, rotate your shoulders and torso until you feel a slight stretch in the core. Push through the heel of your lead foot and extend your hip and knee to raise yourself back up. Alternate between legs for two sets of ten reps on each side.
Always consult your physical therapist or physician before starting exercises you are unsure of doing.
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator