by Denise Müller, Grad. Sports Scientist
We all know the agony – the horrible pain of a tense neck. But what is it about the neck area that makes us suffer from tension and pain so frequently?
The area of the throat and neck is the most flexible part of the spine. Your head is moving all day long – forward, back, side to side, or in targeted swivel movements.
All that is made possible by the great flexibility of the cervical spine.
It is for that reason that this area is subject to great strain, which can manifest in restricted mobility when overstressed or as a result of misalignments. Muscle tension or stiffness, as well as vertebral blockages will often be the result.
What causes neck tension?
It is often the result of a spinal misalignment when sleeping or sitting, and causes the relevant muscles in the area to tighten or overstretch, which leads to a reduced blood circulation in that area. The muscle metabolism is infringed, and structures begin to harden. Carrying unevenly distributed heavy loads or an inadequate seated posture can also lead to neck tension or even spinal blockages.
Physical and mental stress situations over a prolonged period of time will similarly cause neck tension.
There are multiple approaches to alleviating or preventing neck tension. As a rule, well-balanced physical exercise, i.e. swimming, back exercises, cycling (posture is very important here!), and also walking can be very helpful. Specific relaxation techniques, i.e. autogenic training, Jacobsen’s progressive muscle relaxation, and also yoga offer targeted help.
The ergonomics of the workplace play an important role – specifically for mainly sedentary activities. Office chairs with customisable settings are beneficial for an upright and relaxed posture. Furthermore, a number of very affordable tools are available, which will help achieve an improved seated posture.
A visit to the doctor and a physiotherapist will become necessary should neck tension persist and become severe.
