Staring at the computer screen for hours or sleeping in the wrong posture can result in an annoying strain in your neck. With laptops, tablets, smartphones being used for many hours at a stretch, weakening of neck muscles over a period of time is to be expected. The more immediate effect observed is neck pain. If left untreated, it can cause serious and permanent damage to the cervical spine.
Here are some effective ways to manage neck pain naturally:
1 . Heat And Ice Packs
This is the easiest cure for a neck pain. The cold reduces inflammation and heat help in blood circulation. Heat should be applied after cold application. Put some crushed ice cubes in a plastic pack, wrap this pack in a towel and put it around your neck. Keep this for not more than 20 minutes. Now apply heat. You can take a hot shower, a heating pad or a hot water bottle for 20 minutes. Repeat every 2-3 hours. Make sure that ice cubes are never applied directly to your skin.
2 . Neck Exercises
Move your head in circular motion, once in clockwise and then in an anti-clockwise direction. Do this five times in each direction for 3-4 times a day. You can also move your head back and forth and sideways for five times. If the pain is too much, immediately consult a doctor.
3 . Hydrotherapy
It involves the use of water to alleviate pain. The force, with which the water strikes the affected part, reduces soreness as well as pain. Target the neck area with a jet of hot water for 3-4 minutes in the shower. Now, switch to cold water and target the same area for a minute. You can repeat this for 4-5 times during the bath.
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4 . Lavender Oil Massage
You can also massage the neck area with lavender oil. Lavender oil is an excellent agent to reduce pain. Rub some lavender oil on your neck and shoulder region and massage in a circular pattern. Apply mild pressure and massage the area for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this daily as per your need. Stop, if it pains too much while massaging.
5 . Apple Cider Vinegar
Due to its anti-inflammatory property, one can also use apple cider vinegar to get a relief from neck pain. Soak the towel in the vinegar and warm it in a microwave. Place this warm towel on your neck and leave it for an hour. Repeat this if the pain persists. Make sure that the towel is not burning hot.