Cervical syndrome, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a condition that affects the neck and the upper back. It is caused by age-related wear and tear of the spinal disks and joints in the neck.
Cervical syndrome can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms.
Although cervical syndrome is a common condition, there are ways to prevent it from causing you pain. In this article, we will discuss six ways to prevent cervical syndrome and manage neck pain.
1. Practice good posture
One of the most effective ways to prevent cervical syndrome is to practice good posture. When you sit or stand with your shoulders back, your head balanced and your back straight, you reduce the strain on your neck and spine.
By maintaining a healthy posture, you can prevent cervical syndrome from developing.
If you sit at a desk for long periods of time, be sure to adjust your chair and computer screen so that you are sitting with good posture. Take breaks every hour or so to stand up, stretch, and move your head and neck around.
2. Exercise regularly
Exercise is essential for preventing cervical syndrome. Regular exercise can keep your neck and spine healthy and prevent degenerative changes. Focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Yoga and Pilates are great low-impact exercises that can help with neck pain.
It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet. Being overweight can put extra strain on your neck and spine, contributing to cervical syndrome.
3. Stretch frequently
Stretching can help ease tension in your neck and prevent cervical syndrome. Incorporate stretching into your daily routine, especially after sitting for long periods of time.
Some effective stretches for neck pain include neck rotation, side bending, and chin tucks. It’s important to start slowly and gently when stretching your neck, being careful not to overdo it.
4. Use a supportive pillow
A supportive pillow can help keep your neck and spine aligned during sleep, preventing cervical syndrome. Choose a pillow that keeps your head and neck in a neutral position, neither too high nor too low.
Memory foam pillows are a good choice because they conform to the shape of your head and neck.
5. Take breaks from electronics
The increasing use of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops has led to more cases of cervical syndrome. Spending hours looking down at a screen can cause strain and tension in your neck and contribute to cervical syndrome.
To prevent neck pain from electronics, take frequent breaks and adjust your posture when using these devices. Try to hold your devices at eye level to prevent neck strain.
6. Get regular chiropractic care
Regular chiropractic care can help prevent cervical syndrome and manage neck pain. Chiropractic adjustments can help realign your spine and reduce tension in your neck and upper back.
A chiropractor can also provide advice on posture, exercise, and stretching to prevent cervical syndrome from developing.
By following these six tips, you can prevent cervical syndrome and manage neck pain.
Good posture, regular exercise, stretching, using a supportive pillow, taking breaks from electronics, and regular chiropractic care can help keep your neck and spine healthy.