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Neck pain caused by muscle tension is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. At Bodyworks Healing Clinic, we understand the impact it can have on your daily life and are here to offer effective solutions.

Neck pain from muscle tension occurs when the muscles in the neck become tight or overworked, causing pain and stiffness. This type of pain can be acute, appearing suddenly, or chronic, lasting for weeks or months.

Neck pain from muscle tension can be caused by various factors, including:

• Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can cause muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulders.
• Poor Posture: Maintaining an incorrect posture for long periods, such as hunching over a computer, can strain the neck muscles.
• Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repeated neck use, like looking at a mobile phone, can cause muscle tension.
• Lack of Mobility: Inactivity or lack of exercise can contribute to muscle stiffness and pain.

Neuromuscular massage is an effective technique to relieve muscle tension in the neck. This treatment focuses on releasing trigger points and correcting muscle imbalances, improving function and reducing pain (1)(2).

Lymphatic drainage massage helps improve circulation and reduce inflammation, promoting faster recovery and relieving pain (3).

1. Upper Trapezius Stretch:
   
   • Sit in a chair with your back straight.
   • Gently tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear toward your shoulder.
   • Use your hand to apply light pressure and deepen the stretch.
   • Hold this position for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides.
   • Repeat 3 times on each side.

1. Neck Rotation:
   
   • Sit or stand with your back straight.
   • Slowly turn your head to the right until you feel a gentle stretch.
   • Hold this position for 20-30 seconds, then turn to the left.
   • Repeat 3 times in each direction.

These exercises help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the neck muscles (4).

Neck pain from muscle tension can be debilitating, but at Bodyworks Healing Clinic, we are here to help. By combining neuromuscular massage and lymphatic drainage massage, we can provide effective relief and improve your quality of life. Don’t wait any longer, call (619) 502-9333 to schedule a professional appointment and start your journey to wellness.

1. Hanten WP, Olson SL, Hodson JL, Imler VL, Knab VM, Magee JL. Effectiveness of a home program of ischemic pressure followed by sustained stretch for treatment of myofascial trigger points. Phys Ther. 2019;79(10):946-952.
2. Bron C, Dommerholt J. Etiology of myofascial trigger points. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2020;16(5):439-444.
3. Simons DG, Travell JG, Simons LS. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. 2nd ed. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2021.
4. Kietrys DM, Palombaro KM, Azzaretto E. Effectiveness of trigger point dry needling for musculoskeletal pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phys Ther. 2019;93(7):940-958.