Neck Pain and Stress Management in Vacaville

It is well-known that emotional stress can cause a headache in Vacaville. In fact, we have named it as tension headache. However, some people are not aware that stress can also have a physical effect on the muscles in your neck. As you become more tense, your neck muscles will start to tighten and could make neck pain set in. Chronic neck pain can be a cause of your fatigue, irritability, and even depression, which adds up to your stress even more. This can turn into a vicious cycle.

How stress adds to the discomfort in Vacaville

Stress won't likely cause neck pain, but it can bring out the symptoms of underlying neck pain. It has also been shown to influence a person's perception of pain. Your pain will worsen when you are under stress. Many people have experienced neck pain as their stress levels go up, so it shows that there is a connection.

Relieving stress

Modern back and neck pain treatment put a big emphasis on coping strategies, self-management, and a quick return to normal activities. Stress management is a big part of the treatment plan for neck pain. You can try the following tips:

• Exercise: Physical activity is important for keeping your blood flowing and your muscles moving. Neck pain treatment may involve neck exercises to get rid of the tension. If you are unsure about safe exercises, then you can always ask your doctor for help. Stretching, side-to-side movement and aerobic activity are the best ways to get your blood flowing.
• Take an active role: A rapid return to activity is sometimes the best medicine to keep you going with a positive outlook.
• Take care of yourself: Healthy habits are a great way of reducing stress and a healthy diet is one of them. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can agitate you and even interfere with your sleep. Make sure to also stop smoking because it slows down the healing process and it will reduce the blood supply to your neck muscles.
• Lean relaxation techniques: These techniques can reduce stress, which includes meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and art or music therapy. Choose one that you can do during the day to slow down and relax.
• Talk about your stress: Having a support system is helpful especially when you are feeling too stressed out. In fact, talking about your problems, in general, can provide you stress relief. If you want, you can take a formal in-person or online support group to talk about the things that stress you out.
• Get a massage: A gentle massage can relieve your stress and even neck pain since it gets the blood flowing into the affected area. You can also apply heat or cold to relieve pain and tension.

Get moving now

Neck pain treatment has changed over the years. In most cases, it can heal on its own and you can get back to doing your usual activities. But if your neck still hurts a bit, then come visit us at Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA to get treated. Just dial (707) 474-5688 to setup an appointment with us today!