In addition to stretches and exercises if you suffer with neck and shoulder tension, you can try lifestyle changes that might help you to relieve it or even help prevent it. While over the counter medications can be helpful for some people, or for mild to moderate neck and shoulder pain, try these techniques to alleviate the problem first.
HOT AND COLD THERAPY
Cold therapy can help to relieve any pain from a neck or shoulder strain, or that morning when you wake up having slept badly with a sore neck. Try a pack of frozen veggies in a towel if you don’t have a compress. For tense muscles, heat can be soothing so use a hot water bottle, heat pad or compress.
BATHING IN EPSOM SALTS
Taking an Epsom salt bath promotes relaxation and muscle healing. Submerge yourself in warm (not too hot) water for the most relaxing effects and soothe the tension from your shoulders.
STRESS MANAGEMENT AND RELAXATION
It’s very common for people to hold on to tension and stress in their shoulders and neck. If that sounds like you, try to manage the stress at source; deep breathing and meditation techniques
can be really helpful as you feel the anxiety building. Getting a massage not only creates a relaxing and quiet environment to wind down, it can also target the tension directly. If you enjoy yoga, it can be a great way of relieving stress and helping stretch tense muscles at the same time.
SLEEPING WELL AND BETTER
If you frequently wake up with a sore neck, keep an eye on your sleeping position and change it if necessary. You might also try using a neck support pillow to give you a bit of extra support without overextending your neck.