Underlying causes of a stiff neck
First of all, it can be worthwhile to try to determine the cause of your issue. This shouldn’t be too difficult, and will typically relate to:
- Stress or anxiety
- Over-clenching jaw muscles
- Bad posture
- Poor sleep quality
- Bad positioning when lying or sitting down
- Overwork at the gym
- Driving for long periods
Of course, you may be suffering from a neck injury or have an underlying medical condition, so understanding the root cause will help you define the best form of treatment. If you are unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local health care provider or medical professional for advice before practicing home remedies.
Top natural treatments for a stiff neck
Topical medication
When it comes to neck pain, one of the first things you’re likely to do is reach for pharmaceutical relief, but there are simply so many reasons not to (unless the pain is extreme/unbearable or there is a more serious issue to consider). Topical gels are widely selected for their ability to penetrate the skin and target very specific areas – and they don’t feature the same risks or side effects as oral alternatives.
With natural approaches in mind, CBD has been a firm favourite for neck pain sufferers for quite a while now, due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Some people will see more benefits when applying heat-activated solutions, whereas others prefer cold treatments, so be sure to try out HEMPE Hot and Cold CBD gels to see what works for you.
Light exercise
In order to strengthen muscles and build resilience, performing light exercises daily can be a fantastic preventative measure. Many of us spend the majority of our days sitting at a desk, and while this can be a contributor, you can also use this time to your advantage. There are plenty of simple exercises to be found online, just be sure to be gentle and work through them slowly and gently to not exacerbate issues.
Leverage home solutions
While topical pain relieving gels and exercise have immediate and long-term benefits, it can be a good idea to invest in some additional home solutions to prevent neck pain going forward. It can be worthwhile considering adding natural ingredients like Epsom salts to baths, purchasing a neck pillow, switching pillows and potentially mattresses to memory foam, and so on.
Practice mindfulness
As stress can cause us to tighten up, a key natural remedy for many is simply practicing mindfulness. When you are working, driving, or even watching TV, take a moment to check on your physical well-being. Are your shoulders raised? Is your jaw clenched? Are you breathing properly? How much water have you had to drink today? This will be the time to actionably relax or boost your liquid intake – which are extremely important for long-term relief.
If you’d like to learn more about the causes of a stiff neck, preventative measures, and some additional tips, why not check out https://hempehelps.com/en-eu/blogs/guides/how-to-get-rid-of-stiff-neck to learn more.
