Neck injuries are common after experiencing a car accident. Some people have whiplash or back trouble, but working with a doctor who can get to the root cause of your neck pain often provides relief. In addition to working with a doctor, you can do exercises and stretches at home to help ease the pain and discomfort of your injury.
Exercises and Stretches For Neck Injury
After you’ve seen a doctor and they’ve diagnosed you with a neck injury, it’s essential to make sure that they approve of you doing exercises to help the healing process. Start each activity slowly and back off if you have further pain. Some exercises that may help you recover faster include:
Neck Rotation
- Stand up straight or sit in a chair.
- Keep your chin level while turning your head to the left while holding this for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Turn your head to the right while holding for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat each side two to four times.
Forward Neck Flexion
- Stand up straight or sit in a chair.
- Tilt your head forward.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat two to four times.
Neck Stretches
- While looking straight ahead, tilt your left ear to your left shoulder. As you do this, do not let your right shoulder rise while tilting your head.
- Hold this stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Tilt your head to the right. Do not let your left shoulder move up while tilting your head.
- Hold this side for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat two to four times for each side.
Side Bend Strengthening
- Using your left hand, put your first two fingers on your left temple.
- Bend your head to the side while applying gentle pressure with your fingers to prevent your head from bending.
- Hold this position for six seconds.
- Repeat this exercise eight to 12 times.
- Switch sides and repeat the exercise on your right side.
Forward Bend Strengthening
- Put your first two fingers on your forehead.
- Start bending forward while applying gentle pressure with your fingers to stop your head from moving.
- Hold this position for six seconds
- Repeat this exercise eight to 12 times.
While these are wonderful stretches and exercises, some people find that a professional massage can greatly help them recover.
Let Us Help You
If you have been in an accident and have a neck injury, you must do everything possible to help your body recover. Don’t try to do it alone—work with a qualified medical professional at Synergy Health Partners. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!