Showing posts with label how to reduce neck pain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label how to reduce neck pain. Show all posts

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Should You Crack Your Own Neck?


Bone popping is a common habit. People will press in their knuckles, crane their back, and even pull on their own necks in order to feel that oh-so-satisfying cracking sound. Not to mention the feeling of relief that comes with it, releasing pent-up joint pressure, and providing immediate endorphins that are said to reduce pains and increase relaxation. It's also why so many are popping their own joints. 

But it is a practice that's safe?

Depends where you're popping. There's a reason physical therapists and chiropractors go to school for years – they learn about how the body is put together, how it works, and where bones should sit. Then with this training in tow, they set out to help others stay aligned. One of the most dangerous areas is the neck, where the spine is narrowed, and where a wrong move can seriously injure a patient, or send aches and pains down into their back. Possibly even worse.

Should we be attempting to do the same on our own? Probably not. It's one thing when joints give and pop when prompted only by your movements. But it's another to pull and press until a sound is heard. In fact, it's actually a dangerous way to strain muscles in a very sensitive area. 

Instead, it's best to stick with a professional and let them put your bones where they need to be. Steps like sleeping on an alignment pillow, regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help with neck health. And better yet, each of these can be done on your own. When paired, they can help eliminate the need to "crack" your neck all on their own. Or, visit your medical professional to keep everything in check, then ask their advice for making their handy work last. 


These simple steps, when combined, can help increase neck and spine health for the long-term, and eliminate pains.  

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

4 At-Home Tips to Reduce Neck Tension

The neck is one of our most important body parts. Holding up our heads and allowing us to turn and view as needed, it's what keeps us upright and alert throughout the entire day. Yet it's also very easily injured … if even slightly. Simply by sleeping or turning wrong, you can pull a muscle or jolt a bone – a single move that can cause pain for days on end. Even worse comes stress or daily habits that create ongoing tension.

To obtain better neck health and to eliminate pain … without drugs or expensive treatments, consider:

4. Temperature Changes 


Depending on what ails you, isolated heat or a cold compress can do wonders for the neck. Talk to a pro or research which extreme will provide the best results. Then create temperature changes right where they're needed most. You can also look to lotions or salves that add or remove degrees simply with application.

3. Stretching


Neck muscles are most often pulled because they are under developed. However, turning your head in certain directions or performing strengthening movements can eliminate that issue. By creating a stronger, more versatile portion of the body that won't strain with sudden movement. 

2. More Pillow Support


When sleeping "wrong," your neck can suffer immensely during waking hours. Simply from being jarred or unsupported throughout the night. (And for hours on end.) Instead of risking this painful fate, enlist the help of a pillow that offers its healing services. Comfort and better neck health, all while you sleep.

1. Massage



Sore muscles deserve to be relaxed, and nothing relieves quite as much tension than an old-fashioned neck rub. Schedule an appointment, ask your significant other, or invest in a small device that will work out kinks. It's a proven, relaxing step that can negate pain while helping reduce future injuries. 

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Yoga Poses to Help Ease Neck Pain

A crick in the neck – whether recurring or a one-time thing – is downright uncomfortable. The pinching and pressure makes it hard to enjoy the day, let alone get through it without the assistance of a pain reliever. But luckily, there are a number of stretches and poses that can help ease your burden. Look to these simple yoga moves the next time you’re feeling down in the neck.

Cow Face Arms


Yogies will know just how to achieve this move. And for the rest of us, it’s done by kneeling all the way down on one’s mat. Then taking the hands and holding them together just below the nape of the neck so that one elbow is pointed toward the ceiling and the other the floor. Hold for several deep breaths to get the best results.

8-Point Shoulder Opener


This pose is done with the help of a block. Place your head on top of your rectangle while laying on your back with the knees up and feet on the floor. Next join your hands behind the back and place to one side of the body. Just remember this is a deep stretch, so ease in with caution!

Shoulder Opener on Blocks


Another pose with a block, this time take your prop and place it on its tall end. Kneel all the way down and place your elbows on top of the block. Slowly start to lower the head as deep as feels comfortable. This one can be held slightly longer, especially as it allows you to stretch deeper the longer you relax.


Other yoga moves that help the neck include shoulder openers, fish or supported fish pose, thread the needle, spinal twists, and other gentle variations that allow the neck to stretch, but without applying too much pressure in the process. 

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Customer Reviews Say it Best! Check Out the Twist Neck Pillow

Traveling? Staying in? No matter your destination, nothing quite says “comfort on the go” like our Twist Neck Pillow. All it takes is a few maneuvers and you can be on your way to sitting in any position without losing neck support. And without having to crane and adjust the body in order to get it. (You know the pain of twisting and adjusting the body until you get settled just so.)

But not only is this little guy convenient, it’s portable, and incredibly comfortable. Don’t take our word for it though – take its continued sales patterns. As well as reviews from actual Twist Pillow users.

“This is my 2nd twist pillow. I bought the 1st over 12 years ago. I can twist one end up when seated so my head is supported while I sleep flying over the Atlantic. I am able to use it in a hotel as a CPAP pillow when I use my machine,” January 2015 
“I use it at home to stretch my neck. Perfect size and resilience.” July 2014 
“Bought one in 1997 & found I could turn up one end to rest my head while I sleep. Am a CPAP user. It is great to sleep on as the pillow does not interfere with the mask. It goes with me on all travels now.” July 2014 
“I saw one of these pillows while on a long flight oversees and continued to look for one of my own for two years. I finally found one at a small drug store and bought the last one they had. Once I knew who made it, I looked them up on their web page and discovered the full line of amazing products. After reviewing all the products, I still decided to go with more of the same thing because it is so versatile. Am enjoying the pillow very much and have decided to purchase extras as gifts.” July 2014 
“Fell asleep in front of the TV again. This really helps!” May 2013 
“This product is great. I take it everywhere with me. I have several bulging disks in my neck plus fibromyalgia and this pillow gives the perfect support no matter if I am laying down reading, in the car, or watching TV on the sofa.” May 2013

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Perks of a Properly Aligned Neck

Few people worry about the alignment of their neck. Unless it’s hurting or causing some sort of health risk, they assume it’s taking care of itself. And don’t think much else about the neck. But when we consider everything that the neck does – or rather, what can go wrong when it isn’t functioning properly – it’s actually one of the first things we should be looking out for. 

A misaligned neck can cause headaches, pinched nerves, affect balance, and more. But when taken care of – supported by a foam pillow or adjusted by a medical professional – there’s plenty to be gained.

Ongoing Neck Care Can Offer:


Height – stand tall when the neck is fully straight and in place. It’s better for your posture, and for keeping the vertebrae in place.  

Proper mobility – when out of whack, it’s difficult to turn and view one’s surroundings, especially behind and to the sides. Better alignment, however, eliminates this issue, along with any pains that might come with it. 

Comfort – the neck can often trigger pains we didn’t even know were associated with its alignment. Headaches, back and shoulder issues, and more can all be solved with an in-line neck. 

Better understanding of health – if you know how it feels to be aligned, you’ll soon know how it feels when you’re out of place. Identifying this issue quickly can reduce long-term side effects by addressing misalignment immediately. 

Better circulation – this can improve health on its own, while also restoring range of motion in the neck and surrounding muscles, which reduces stress and tension within the body. 


Just because the neck doesn’t receive much attention doesn’t mean it isn’t an important part of the body. Or that it shouldn’t be looked after on a nightly basis. Consider upgrading your neck care routine today for an easy way to gain ongoing health benefits. 

Thursday, January 22, 2015

What Causes Cricks in the Neck?

No one likes starting their day with a crick in their neck. It’s painful, makes it hard to turn one’s head, and more often than not, lasts most of the day. Painful and practically incurable, it’s one of the worst ways to roll out of bed. But is still done by thousands of Americans each and every day. However, by working to identify these initial causes, we can eliminate their symptoms. From first waking up each morning to the very end of the workday. 

Cricks in the neck are most often caused by:

Straining the Neck 


If you work at a desk, or need to stretch and strain throughout the day, you’re more likely to irritate the muscles. Make sure monitors are at eye level. Also, any reading or driving should be done in a neck-friendly position.

Sleeping “Wrong”


If you have too many pillows, or sleep on a surface that’s too soft, you can cause ongoing pains by stretching or reducing support for the muscles. Instead, opt for a foam pillow that cradles the head, allowing the neck to relax along with the rest of the body.

Pulled Muscles


Generally, muscles that get the least amount of attention are pulled most often. By working out different parts of the body (or just stretching them), you can help strengthen muscles, eliminating the chance at injury. Even just from sleeping. 

Bad Posture


Slouching or sitting in a hunched over position can put pressure on the wrong parts of the neck (and those areas that are most sensitive). Remember to sit up straight and avoid leaning forward for long periods of time. 


To avoid getting a crick in the neck, avoid these dangerous tactics and look to their proven cures instead. 

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Sleep Better with Neck Alignment

There are few things worse than waking up with a crick in one’s neck. It’s painful, ongoing, and make it difficult to make it through the rest of the day. At least without turning one’s entire body each time you need to rotate your head. And while these pains might not be an everyday occurrence, when they do take place, they are less than comfortable to deal with.

Sleeping with a more supportive pillow, however, can work to reduce those cricks each and every night. Because neck-based pillows are designed specifically to cradle the spine and upper portions of the back, bones are better kept in place and held there throughout various sleeping positions. Meanwhile, muscles are kept from pinching or becoming displaced as you move. (Generally, neck pains happen when we’re sleeping, because we’re too relaxed to feel excess pressure put on muscles. Neck muscles also create more pain due to an increase in sensitivity levels.) 

When opting for versions with memory foam, you can even create a more comfortable pillow simply by using it. Each night you sleep, the pillow will better form to your body and create a custom fit. While additional add-ons, such as cooling foam, head cutouts, and more, offer a more personalized sleeping experience for each user. Sleepers are also proven to get deeper, longer periods of sleep with these type of bed products. Because they allow you to become (and stay) more comfortable, REM cycles will take place without interruption. (You can even learn more about individual cycles by talking with your doctor or a sleep expert.)


To learn more about supporting your neck while you sleep, head to Contour Living and check out our various options. Have a question or comment? Live chat with a specialist and find the best fit for you!

Monday, June 30, 2014

Neck-friendly Tips for the Fourth of July

In just a few days’ time, fireworks will be set off to celebrate our nation’s freedom. (That is, unless your neighborhood has taken on the holiday already.) It’s a loud, colorful display that allows us a yearly bout of explosions and excitement. Ones that are meant to be enjoyed. And whether you love setting off said explosions or prefer to sit and watch from a safe distance, it’s a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for generations. But when the big show is taking place in the sky (as opposed to dinkier models set off in the driveway), it can be an actual pain in the neck to watch it in person. Especially when a solid view means cranking or jarring oneself into place. 

To save your neck, however, all it takes is a little strategic planning. For instance, laying out a blanket and enjoying the view from a horizontal position. Not one that comes with a chair that doesn’t recline. Or, if you know where the show will take place, opt for a location that’s further away (without sacrificing the view) so that you can relax your neck without obstructing the show. 

For the daytime fireworks, it’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. While there’s no way to be sure exactly when a loud pop or bang will be set off, knowing that it’s a possibility throughout the day can lessen the blow. This can save you a scare or two, as well as any sudden movements that lead toward a pulled muscle or soreness. 


This upcoming holiday, remember that even the longest of American traditions can come with a surprise. Whether by sound or a beautiful view in a less-than-ideal location. Look into better bodily care – even in the planning stages – to save yourself any firework-induced pains.  

Monday, June 16, 2014

How to Achieve Proper Reading Posture

When it’s time to sit down with a good book, we rarely stop to think about something as trivial as how we’re sitting. So long as it’s a comfortable spot and the words are flowing off the page as quickly as we can get to them, there’s really not much else to consider. Right? But when we’re so involved in a book that we crane and stretch to find the next page, there can actually be some serious side effects that take place. 

Most notably, these changes come in the form of headaches, neck aches, and sore muscles. Even just a plain ‘ol crick in the neck from hunching in the wrong direction for too long a time. Whatever the secondary cause from reading “incorrectly,” it can easily be reversed with a simple posture upgrade.

Whether you read on the couch, in a recliner, or in bed, find a cozy spot that’s most comfortable for checking in with your favorite characters. Next, consider what type of support – if any – is being offered. If in bed, regular pillows might not offer enough leverage, while a wedged or gradual incline pillow will prop your head without making you strain or reach to see each page. If in a recliner, opt for a pillow under your arms so the head can sit back and relax. While a couch might be most helpful with all of the above. 

Outside features, such as room temperature and light should also be considered. Trying to keep cool (or warm) can cause you to move into awkward positions, while a room that is too dark means squinting and pulling one’s face ever-closer to the text, even when it’s within close distance.


Book lovers everywhere can agree that reading before bed – or really anytime – is a favorite past time. To make the best out of this already enjoyable experience, remember to adjust posture for a better, more body friendly posture

Friday, June 13, 2014

3 Ways Driving Can Be a Literal Pain in the Neck

There’s a little bit of road rage in all of us, no matter how intense it might be. Whether we just get frustrated or have to head to stress management classes after a traffic jam, it’s safe to say that driving can cause some serious tension. It’s how we handle those tensions, however, that may or may not lead to secondary issues, such as headaches, muscle pains, and other stress-induced side effects.

To make the most our of your next driving venture, remember the following:

3. Tensing Muscles Can Cause Them to Ache


When we’re angered or stressed out, generally it’s common to tense the muscles. Though it’s not done on purpose, it’s an underlying act that can cause aches and pains later on. The longer amount of time, or more often, that one tenses, however, the greater these pains can become. 

To avoid pulling or stressing the muscles, try and relax while driving, even in the most frustrating of situations. 

2. Checking for Traffic Too Quickly Can Cause Neck Strains


When “whipping” or quickly checking for merging traffic, our necks often feel the brunt of the efforts. This fast-paced motion can lead to pulled muscles or strains within the neck. Which is also one of the sorest places to upset a deep muscle.  

Rather than doing a quick check, take your time and allow the neck to slowly adjust to new positions; the extra time will lead to stronger and more agile muscles. 

1. Being Petal Happy Can Cause Whiplash



We know it’s important to take it easy on the brakes – and the gas – to save on efficiency. But that’s not the only reason why. Making a “hard” stop or slamming on the breaks can also cause some uncomfortable muscle or bone jarring. While these events can be painful up front, they can also fly under the radar … until they don’t. While emergencies happen, avoid hard petal actions to keep your body in place and properly aligned.  

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Have Trouble Slouching? This Piece of Jewelry Could Solve Your Problems

We know slouching is bad. Our mothers, grandmothers, and teachers have been telling us this since we were old enough to sit. But just because we know we shouldn’t do something doesn’t mean it’s easy to not do it. Like slouching. No matter how many times we’ve heard “don’t slouch,” it doesn’t make sitting up straight any more comfortable. Especially when slouching in that office chair is so easy – during the afternoon post-napping period and beyond. 

But thanks to a new invention, disguised as jewelry, it’s a step you no longer have to take on your own. Known as the Lumo Lift, this small electronic device buzzes every time your spine begins to curve. Or whenever you want it to. Set the device to offer reminders or just keep track on your sitting behaviors. It works by wearing the device near their collarbone, which then measures the curvature of the back throughout the day. The device even connects to your smartphone, allowing you to track your posture progress over time. 

Lumo Lift creators also boast instant posture benefits, such as appearing more welcoming to others and receiving an adrenaline rush each time you straighten your back.

The Lumo Lift and Everyday Style


For those worried about personal style, the device has you covered. Users can choose from white, black, or silver, while fashionable “clips” in a rainbow of colors and fancier, bejeweled models, which help jazz up the device for special occasions. (Or just dressier officewear.) These clips contain magnets attaching the Lift, so they can blend in with any shirt color.

Though it has yet to hit the market, these small devices can be pre-ordered (models are $79 and $94, with the latter offering colored clips). Pick one up for yourself or the entire office to gain a discount while promoting good posture office-wide. 


To learn more about this interesting twist on bodily science-meets-technology, head to their website at LumoBodyTech.com.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Why Texting is a Literal Pain in the Neck

It’s no secret that the population has taken strongly to their cell phones. From smartphones to flip models that only call and send texts, these devices are used numerous times per day. Even more so for versions loaded down with apps, cameras, and the ability to perform almost any task. Calculators, weather updates, TV shows, and portable electronic radios can all be found on the modern smartphone.

But when checking our phones countless times throughout the day, that pattern is bound to come with some sort of side effect. Like neck pains. With all that leaning, squinting, and bending to see who sent what message, the neck is the body part that suffers the most.

Experts say that due to the weight of our heads – an adult is toting around 10 to 12 pounds up there – and the lack of natural support when texting, it’s common to develop literal pains in the neck. The more frequent the texting, the harsher the pains. However, it’s not the phones’ fault, it’s the way we look at them. When hunching down or leaning over to read a screen, the neck loses its natural curve. A posture that keeps neck bones and muscles right where they need to be.

How To Take Better Care of your Neck


The next time you get a text, don’t bring your eye line to your phone, bring your phone to your eye line. This might not feel as comfortable (at first), but it will keep your neck where it needs to be and create a healthier long-term habit.

Another option is to hold off on texting. Unless it’s a necessity, look to other forms of communication, such as talking on the phone or meeting in person. While not as quick, it’s a simple way to reduce texting and looking upright instead.

If you’re a regular sufferer of pains in the neck, consider your texting habits – and adjust them to better reflect proper health.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Snuggle Up with Contour’s New L-Pillow

How often do you toss and turn looking for that perfect side sleeping position? A few times a month? A few times a week? A night? No matter the frequency, it just seems that sometimes, it’s practically impossible to stay comfortable while sleeping on your side.

Until now. With the help of Contour Living’s brand new L-Shaped pillow, sleepers of all ages and sizes can get the side support they’ve been waiting for. As its name suggests, this pillow takes the shape of a literal L, leaving a section for one’s head and neck, and another for the side, knees, or arms. Turn it around to flip over, or adjust as needed to achieve optimal side-sleeping comfort.

Who Should Use the L-Shaped Pillow


The L-Pillow is great for anyone looking for a relaxing, supportive way to sleep. As well as those suffering from ongoing aches and pains caused from improper alignment, recent surgery patients, or those looking for a better way to rest each night.

Also made for anyone who’s looking for a little extra body support, this pillow offers a plush resting space for the spinal system. Lay down your neck and head for an added bit of comfort – also keeping it steadily in place – while simultaneously aligning the spine, hips, and back. The pillow is also great for properly adjusting shoulders without adding extra weight or pressure.

Sleepers can “hug” their pillow to reduce resting weight on the arms, or just adjust to find the proper position – no matter how your prefer to sleep.

Additional Features


The L-Pillow also comes with:

Premium fabric – let the microfiber feel help soothe you into sleep.
Quality construction – durable and made to last, each pillow is made with the utmost precision and care.
Support for nursing or holding your baby – adjust the pillow to achieve maximum comfort while giving baby the care he or she needs.

To shop or learn more about the L-Pillow, click here.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

How to Eliminate Headaches While you Sleep

The easier it is to find a medical treatment, the better – a common theory among sufferers of all kinds. When in place, colds could be met with as little resistance as possible, invasive procedures would be kept at a minimum, and meanwhile, everyone would be feeling their best without nasty or uncomfortable side effects. Unfortunately, that can’t be said for a large portion of illnesses that affect the population.

Headaches, however, are one cause that fits the bill.

Headaches and One of Their Main Causes

A majority of headaches and subsequent neck pain stems from the way we sleep each night. From craning or placing awkward pressure on the head and neck, ongoing aches occur and create regular headaches. Though certain positions might be comfortable during sleep (whether in general or from one’s level of relaxation), they can actually cause pains throughout the day. Additionally, a lack of neck support can cause pressure, affect blood flow, or even cause vertebrae to become misaligned. All of these things then contribute to head pain, whether in one night or a gradual increase over time.

While it can be hard to know just how we sleep in throughout the night, a new, supportive pillow can offer ongoing relief. Even without a sleep study. Look to a pillow with neck support, memory foam, and gentle cradling – all of which align the spine in a natural position. Over time, this will reduce headaches and create a healthier sleeping pattern. Many notice results in just one night.

Talk to your doctor about specific headaches or how a pillow change might affect or accompany ongoing treatments. For the rare headache patient, however, a simple change in support levels can do wonders for their daily routine.

To learn more about supportive pillows, talk to a specialist or check out the selection at Contour Living’s pillow page.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Top 3 Neck Exercises & Stretches for Beginners


The key to preventing neck injuries is in developing strength and flexibility in your neck.  Although there are many exercises you can perform to improve your neck muscles. The following three very simple stretches and exercises are for beginners.  As with all neck exercise always begin in the neutral position.  Neutral position is when the body is aligned and relaxed. Also, as with any exercises you should always do these and any exercises under the guidance of your doctor.  Neck exercises should be performed in a slow and controlled manner.

1. Chin Tuck
The chin tuck is the most popular and easiest exercise you can do to help correct your posture, prevent getting a rounded back and an unnatural forward head position; both of 
which are more likely to occur as you age.  You can perform the chin tuck either from a standing, sitting or lying down position as long as you begin in the neutral position.  

From a neutral position, begin with your head facing forward and gently push your chin back to form somewhat of a double chin and hold for a few seconds. Repeat.  Be sure not to raise or lower the head.  You should be looking straight ahead.  It may be helpful to perform this in front of a mirror or start with your back straight against a door or wall.

2. Shoulder Blade Squeeze 
There are several different methods for the shoulder blade squeeze and you will want to find one that is best for you.  This exercise will help strengthen your neck and improve your posture.  Begin sitting in a neutral position with your chin slightly tucked in.  Place your hands on the tops of your thighs.  Slowly pull shoulders back and squeeze your shoulder blades together.  Hold for a few seconds. Repeat.

3. Head Rotation
This exercise will help strengthen and stretch the neck rotators and relieve stiffness in your neck.  It is very important to begin this exercise either standing or sitting in the neutral position with the head and neck in proper axial alignment.  Once in the proper position slowly turn your head to one, hold for a few seconds then turn back to the center and repeat on the opposite side.  Always remember to keep your body in proper alignment throughout the entire exercise movement.  

Contour Products offers a variety of neck pillows and related products.


Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Reduce Neck Pain and Tension

New Self-Massage Tool for Neck Pain & Tension

Neck King is a self-massage tool designed to release tension in the neck and back muscles. Its four strategically placed bumps allow users to apply pressure to various areas of the neck and back.  It is very easy to use - simply place under desired area (neck, back, legs, etc) and relax.  The raised contour areas will  melt into the areas of tension.  Use daily to reduce pain and pressure on nerves throughout your body.

Neck Muscles and Surrounding Area
  1. Laying down on your back, raise your head and place the Neck King  under your neck, with the lower bumps facing your body. Keep the neck centered between those bumps.
  2. Relax your body and let the bumps melt into your tense muscles.
  3. Gently rock your head to one side then the other, looking for other tender areas to work.
  4. Stay over the tender areas on both sides of the neck, allowing the muscles to relax and associated tension to release. Tender areas should become less tender with daily use of Neck King.
  5. Finally, stretch your neck by allowing your head to roll all the way to each side. Hold the stretch and relax. Repeat this several times. This will help increase your range of motion.
Back Area
  1. Laying on your back, place a pillow under your head 
  2. Place the Neck King just below the pillow and carefully lower your back onto it. Make sure to keep your spine centered between the bumps
  3. Relax your body and let the bumps melt into your tense muscles
  4. To work each side more intensely, you can bend your knees so your feet rest flat on the floor. Then, gently rock your knees side to side. This will allow you to focus more on one side