The most common cause of neck pain is cervical disc disease. The primary reason is defective cushioning in the discs of the neck bones (vertebrae). Due to damage in the disc because of joint disability, there is inflammation or spasms in the muscle leading to pain in the neck. In severe damage or irritation, there could be pain and numbness in the arms. The usual pain relievers like tablets, therapy, traction, and surgery are present. Though self-help at home could be a great neck pain relief and healer.

Here is a list of things you can do at home to achieve neck pain relief:

• Take It Easy
  If you have acute neck pain from a muscle injury, you must slow down your pace and go easy on any physical activity. When you relax, position yourself in such a way that provides comfort and least pain. You should keep the neck in an easy position by slipping a rolled towel or a pillow under it. In the process of taking it easy, it is important to carry on with a little physical activity. Only if it is possible, you can increase the level slowly. Ensure that movement is consistent and does not completely halt. It will help keep the muscles conditioned to give you neck pain relief.

• Apply Cold And Heat Presses
  There seems to be a dilemma on hot or cold treatment for neck pain relief. The recommended formula would be to initially take the cold route with ice for the first 24 to 48 hours post an injury to deal with the swelling. Back it up by heat to soften the muscles and reduce any stiffness. In cervical pain, both heat nor cold will only prove notional elements against inflammation, so choose as desired. Depending on cold or heat compress, it should be kept for only 20 minutes in one go and rested for at least 40 minutes. The correct way to apply the ice or heat is by wrapping it in a towel and not directly on the skin to avoid burns.

• Stretch
  You can undertake stretching exercises for neck pain relief after recommending your doctor. They can also help you gain flexibility. These exercises are best performed after taking a warm shower when the muscles are warm.

Below are a few simple stretching exercises which can be performed at home to obtain neck pain relief:

Turn your head slowly to the right. Then taking the right hand, push the chin slightly so as to turn the head a little more. This position has to be retained for 20 seconds before returning your head back to center slowly. This same procedure has to be repeated on the left side.

Tilt your head to the right. Try to touch your right ear to your shoulder. Then take your right hand and apply a little pressure on your temple. This stance has to kept for 20 seconds, thereby repeating on the left side.

Bend your head forward. Try to bring your chin to the chest. Shoulders should be kept relaxed while doing this. Keep the said position for 20 seconds before repeating.

Bend your knees while lying on your back, keep a pillow below the head and neck as support. Bring your head in front slowly like saying an imaginary “yes”. Keep this stand for 10 seconds, relax and repeat 10 times.

In case you are not comfortable while doing any of these exercises, cease activity at once.

• Exercise
  It is evident from studies that exercise proves beneficial in achieving neck pain relief. A particular study was cited in a Journal of the American Medical Association. It showed that women who undertook exercises with stretchable bands improved on their condition. Besides this, it also helps in remaining active on the whole. Blood flow can be regulated through exercises like walking, and swimming for at least 30 minutes daily. It also maintains nourishment to your spine and optimizes your health. Consulting a doctor who specializes in the techniques of neck pain will help in streamlining the correct exercises for you.

• Get Out of Your Slump
  Neck pain can be triggered fast owing to a faulty posture. So always pay appropriate attention to your gait when standing or lifting and posture when sitting. The appropriate stance is to straighten the head and neck and giving support to the back. While working at the computer, make sure it is placed at eye level and at arm’s length and your back has the chair’s support. Also, keep in mind that the mouse is at a reachable distance. In the event of picking up anything, only the knees should be bent, keeping the back straight.

Keeping all these home remedies in mind, one can surely move towards gaining considerable neck pain relief.