3 Ways to Massage a Stiff Neck for Better Stretching

1. A Pain in the Neck

The source of neck pain could come from anywhere connected to the area. Shoulder tension, chin or jaw problems, vertebrae or back pain can creep into the neck causing stiffness and pain. While stretching the neck with various head moving exercises and shoulder shrugs can relieve tension and keep your neck flexible for easy movement, sometimes the tightness has constricted the neck ligaments and even turning is too painful. Stretching is out of the question until you relieve some of the strain. While you may think you just have a stiff neck, the original tension may be coming from a surrounding body part. A good massage will address the connecting joints and muscles and allow you to loosen up.

2. Hire the Magic Fingers

For people who suffer from a stiff neck, a good masseuse is worth every nickel invested. Tell your masseuse that you are having trouble stretching your neck. If you are accustomed to getting deep tissue massages, then you may need a lighter massage in case any of your sensitive nerves are involved in the tension. A good massage includes gently probing to find the knots and areas where the tension resides. Gentle, circular motions over that spot will break down the strain. If you are noticeably more comfortable after a gentle rubdown, then you may continue with the deep tissue massage. A massage to relieve neck pain should include the back of the head, the neck and shoulders, the spine and the arms; basically, everything that is connected to the blighted area.

3. Do It Yourself

You can get immediate relief from a pain in the neck with a little massage you can do for yourself. Relax as best you can with a few deep breaths before letting some of the tension go. Reach across the front of your chest and gently squeeze the opposite shoulder. Work the squeezes in and out easily, without gouging or pressing your nails or fingertips too hard in to the muscle. Lower your arm and repeat on the other side. While rubbing the back of your neck with one hand, raise your shoulders to take off any strain going on there. Rub for a while and then switch hands. Use heated oil for a really nice massage or lie with a heating pad on your neck for a few minutes before you begin. End the massage with a little isometric hold. Lace the fingers of both hands behind your neck and press forward while holding your head still. Hold for a count of ten. Then raise your fingers to the back of your head and push back with your head. Release slowly.