Neck Exercises For Quadriplegics

Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is impairment to the structures below the neck as the result of a spinal cord injury. Impairment may involve weakness in the limbs, partial or total paralysis and difficulty controlling bodily functions. According to the National Center of Physical Activity and Disability, neck exercises can help improve range of motion, restore flexibility and strengthen the neck muscles. Do not attempt to exercise before your injury has stabilized, take care to protect your neck and stop if you feel pain. Consult a physician prior to beginning your exercise program.

Neck Stretches

Neck stretches help to maintain the length of the neck muscles and restore range of motion. Sit in a comfortable position with your shoulders relaxed. Tilt your head to the left, as far as is comfortable, and drop your right shoulder. Return to the start position and tilt your head to the right while dropping your left shoulder. Tilt your head forward, then tilt your chin toward the ceiling --- do not let your head fall backward. Hold each stretch for up to 30 seconds and repeat three times on each side.

Head Rotation

Head rotations stretch and restore range of motion to the muscles that turn your head. Sit in a comfortable position with your shoulders relaxed. Look over your left shoulder, as far as possible, while keeping your shoulders forward and avoid tilting your chin. Return to the start position and look over your right shoulder. Hold each stretch for up to 30 seconds and repeat three times on each side.

Resisted Head Tilts

Resisted head tilts strengthen the muscles that tilt the head forward, backward and laterally. Sit in a comfortable position with your shoulders relaxed. If you have use of your arms, place your left hand against the left side of your head and press your head into your hand. Repeat the same motion on your right. Place one or both hands against your forehead, and press your head into your hand. Place one or both hands against the back of your head, tuck your chin and press against your hand. If you do not have use of your arms, have a friend assist you. Hold each position for up to 30 seconds and repeat five times on each side.

Resisted Head Rotations

Resisted head rotations strengthen the muscles that turn your head side to side. Sit in a comfortable position with your shoulders relaxed. If you have use of your arms, place your left hand against the left side of your head and turn your head toward your hand. Repeat the same motion on the right. If you do not have use of your arms, have a friend assist you. Hold each position for up to 30 seconds and repeat five times on each side.