How Important Is Staying Active For The Neck?

Pain comes in different intensities for everyone. There is some sort of pain that almost every one of us experiences at some point or another. The neck pain can really get in the way of a good life. Even if the pain in the neck is a minor one, the pain can get into the way your life works. The normal movements and the activities in life can really get restricted.

The neck performs its best when you stay active throughout the day. Unless there is a doctor who has advised you to limit neck movements, here are 3 reasons why we support this theory-

1. Keep the neck muscles active

When the body stays busy the entire day by being involved in various activities such as walking, gardening, exercising, etc., the muscles in your body get worked out, including the neck muscles. Performing such tasks during the day keeps your body active and the muscles working.  For instance, even small minor tasks such as washing your dishes can also help with the pain in your neck. The efforts that you put while bending down to get a dish from the cabinet, wash it and put a dish back in the cabinet all make your neck go through a series of motions to keep it in shape and pain-free.

On the contrary, the neck muscles are de-conditioned if you spend a lot of time being inactive. Tighter neck muscles are more prone to sprains and strains.

2. Better circulatory system

There is improved blood circulation when you keep moving around the day rather than simply sitting on the couch or computer during the entire day. The aerobic exercises elevate the heart rate and breathing during all the physical activities that you perform. You will be surprised to notice the considerable amount of difference in the reduction of the pains in the neck and upper back when you stay active. Mobility is also improved, and your muscles are relaxed. For instance, you may include swimming, biking, jogging or even simply walking in your daily schedule.

It is recommended that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise every week, which accounts for working out only half an hour for 5 days a week.  However, do keep in mind that the same workout regime may not work for everyone. It is preferable that you consult with a doctor first before you start any new exercise routine. For example, in case you have had any prior sports injury treatment, it is best to consult your doctor as to whether or not you should follow any exercises and what exercises would best suit you.

Note: Aerobic exercises reduce pain by releasing endorphins in the brain.  It also helps in enhancing the mood and energy.

3. Posture

Your neck has to support the weight of your head, which weighs almost 10 to 12 pounds. At the same time, it maintains a good posture with your ears just above the shoulders kept in a neutral position. If you bend your neck just 15 degrees, you put a lot of stress on your neck. The more you bend your head, the more pressure your neck goes through. The same is also true when you drift the shoulder forward or slouch. When such an amount of pressure is put on the neck’s joints, it can lead to neck pain and sometimes even shoulder pain.  

It is very important that you pay proper attention to your neck if you do not want to welcome unwanted pain in your life. A proper posture is for sure one of the simplest ways to keep your muscles conditioned.

If you are already experiencing neck pain, the best would be to consider therapy or chiropractic care where the main focus is on your neck and core muscles. Muscle strengthening and good posture relieve pain.