Affecting anywhere from 50 to 70 percent of the population at one time or another, neck pain is almost as common as back pain. Fortunately, most instances of neck pain are temporary and don’t necessarily require going through a spinal fusion procedure. In fact, neck pain often responds well to a little rest or modification of activities. Some tried-and-true home remedies may also provide the relief you seek.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar make it a versatile and reliable pain relief remedy. It’s also a potent antioxidant with many nutritional benefits. You can achieve relief with apple cider vinegar by:
- Soaking a paper towel and applying it to your neck twice daily
- Adding a few cups to a warm bath
- Making a tea
2. Neck Exercises
Stabilize and strengthen neck muscles with some basic motion exercises you can safely do on your own. Exercises should be performed a few times throughout the day until your neck pain goes away. Some exercises you can try include:
- Slowly rotating your neck in a circular motion in each direction
- Gently moving your neck back and forth as if touching your chin to your chest without actually doing so
- Placing your head against one raised shoulder and holding for 5 to 10 seconds before switching to the other side
3. Hydrotherapy
Involving the use of water treatment, hydrotherapy can be as simple as standing under a warm shower with the water directed at the affected area of your neck for 30 to 60 seconds at a time. The warm water increases circulation and relieves muscle tension.
4. Epsom Salt
When absorbed through the skin, Epsom salt has numerous health benefits. Though not all benefits are clearly documented or proven, they are linked to strong anti-inflammatory properties from the magnesium and sulfate. Use Epsom salt to relieve your neck pain by:
- Preparing a warm water bath
- Adding 1 or 2 cups of Epsom salt
- Soaking up to your neck for about 15 to 20 minutes once a day
Note: Epsom salt is not recommended for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart conditions.
Should your neck pain fail to respond to any of these remedies or any over-the-counter meds you have tried, see what a Riverside, CA spine surgeon has to say. The same is true for pain that gets worse or affects nearby areas like your shoulders, arms, or upper back.
In the event your neck pain is severe enough to require surgery, turn to Dr. Hamid Mir for the relief you need and deserve. Dr. Hamid R. Mir MD specializes in a variety of spinal procedures, including the decompression surgery patients claim alleviated their pain. Call our offices today to schedule an appointment.