A neck spasm isn’t just annoying. In some cases, it also triggers pain, headaches, and dizziness. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways to relieve this problem. Here are some effective ways to deal with its symptoms:
See a chiropractor
A chiropractor can better examine why spasms happen. You will be able to identify triggers to prevent or at least reduce their impact on you. More importantly, chiropractors use a combination of therapies, which can address problems more effectively.
For one, they might perform spinal manipulation, in which they apply a high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust to a joint while positioning your body in a certain way. Salt Lake City-based chiropractors and practitioners explain that as the body becomes properly aligned, the pressure on the tissues and nerves are removed, preventing involuntary twitches.
Another therapy your chiropractor may use is heat therapy, applying heat pads on affected areas. Tight muscles ease up and become more flexible when exposed to increased temperatures. Don’t worry, though, as your chiropractor will inform you what will happen on procedures before they start therapy.
Do some good stretching
Spasms often happen when you strain your neck, like when you stare at a computer for long periods or take a call from your mobile without hands, just holding it between your head and your shoulders. In this case, stretching exercises can help.
Put your right hand at the top of your head, then slowly pull your head down towards the right side of your shoulder. Keep it at that position for at least 10 seconds. Do the same on the left side of your body. Repeat the entire exercise thrice. You can also try the scalene stretch.
Stand up and keep your hands at the back of your body. Grab your right wrist with your left hand, and try to pull the arm down. As you do this, tip your head to the left side of the body, so you can stretch the right side. Do this same exercise on the other side of the body and repeat it thrice. Your chiropractor may also teach you some stretching exercises.
Get a massage
Stress is one of the reasons you experience neck spasms, but don’t worry because the soothing therapy of massage can help. The gentle pressure on key points can ease tight muscles and relieve pain. It can also bring back the normal range of motion of your neck in case the spasms come with stiffness.
Some doctors also believe that neck twitches are the body’s natural response to injured tissues, like torn ligaments or herniated intervertebral disk. What massage therapy does is it promotes better blood flow to the neck area, carrying more nutrients that would facilitate speedy recovery to the injured tissues.
A massage also helps tone the muscles, preventing pain and fatigue. Ask your chiropractor for massage therapist recommendations. As you de-stress in massage therapy, prioritize other self-soothing techniques as well, like deep breathing and meditation. Train yourself to cope with stress in a healthy manner.
Neck spasms are literally and figuratively a pain in the neck. Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of them. Keep these things in mind as you deal with those twitches.
