The neck is a delicately constructed area of the body designed to hold the head upright and facilitate the many movements we need to get through the day. Because the vertebrae, connective tissue and muscles are so delicate in this area, neck injuries and conditions that cause neck pain can occur with relative ease.
While it doesn’t directly burden the neck, putting excessive burden on the shoulders can lead to neck pain because a strained shoulder muscle can pull on the muscles that support the upper spine. A great example of this is a heavy purse or shoulder bag, especially because it causes an imbalance on one side of the body.
As you read the following tips for decreasing the load on your neck, feel free to reach out to a team member at Border Therapy Services for information if you’d like to learn more about how we can help with neck pain.
Tips for lightening the load on your neck
So many of us have busy lifestyles that require us to carry quite a few things throughout the day, making it impossible to completely avoid the need for a purse. To decrease the strain on your neck and back, here are some easy-to-implement tips:
- Try to clean out your purse and carry what is absolutely necessary.
- Consider buying a smaller bag with wider straps.
- A backpack can more evenly distribute the load on your shoulders.
- Switch arms as you’re walking.
It’s important to be mindful of your posture as you walk so you don’t add any more strain than is necessary on the neck. Walking tall with an elongated spine decreases the pressure on the neck, even if you’re carrying a handbag.
When to consider physical therapy for neck pain
Making better lifestyle choices like carrying a lighter, more ergonomic handbag can help relieve pain and promote a healthier spine, but you should seek treatment if pain becomes severe and debilitating. The compassionate experts at Border Therapy Services are here to help with several locations in Texas and New Mexico. We can evaluate the sources of your pain and work with you to develop a targeted treatment plan to increase strength and range of motion in your neck.
Contact us today for your initial appointment and to start your journey back to the quality of life you deserve.