Experiencing frequent neck pain can impact your ability to perform daily activities, whether it’s turning your head while driving or working out. Taking oral medication may provide some relief, but the effects are only temporary. According to the practitioners at Walch Chiropractic Center PC, many patients can benefit from a number of proactive approaches. As the Birmingham, AL, area’s leading provider of chiropractic care, they recommend several simple restorative techniques.

4 Ways to Address Neck Pain  

Posture Correction

For many, poor posture exacerbates neck pain. Regularly slouching or hunching your shoulders throughout the day causes muscle tension and strain. Correcting your posture will bring vertebrae back into vertical alignment, alleviating this pressure and reducing pain. One easy way to adjust is to opt for a chair with a supportive headrest, as this keeps your neck in a neutral position.

Change How You Use Your Phone

Though you may not realize it, cradling a phone between your neck and shoulder places additional strain on your cervical spine. This awkward position may help you multitask, but it also contributes to neck pain. To correct this, consider using a hands-free headset, Bluetooth® device, or speakerphone setting when making calls.

Drink More Water

Drinking water is a healthy habit in general, but staying hydrated can address neck pain too. This is because your cervical discs require water to retain their proper shape and alleviate pressure on the spine. Regularly drinking water and maintaining proper hydration prevents disc degeneration, thereby potentially reducing pain.  

Decompression Traction

If you have prolonged pain, it may be a sign of something more serious, such bulging or herniated discs. In this case, advanced treatment is often required. Decompression traction is a form of chiropractic therapy that alleviates pain by gently stretching the soft tissues and muscles of your neck. When performed by a licensed chiropractor, this treatment provides effective, sustained relief.

If you’re struggling to cope with neck pain, Walch Chiropractic Center PC will help. Offering comprehensive chiropractic care in a welcoming atmosphere, they are committed to improving each patient’s quality of life. Visit their website for more information, or call (205) 699-­4433 to make an appointment with the Leeds, AL, office today.