Two Great Work Stretches

Convenient Work Stretches are More Likely to be Effective Stretches

I like to give my patients what I call “work stretches” because they can conveniently be done while sitting in front of your computer.  Personally, I know that if something that will benefit me that is also easy and convenient that I am much more likely to get it done.  Let’s face it, we all know that we need to stretch more often and most of you who spend the day sitting in front of your computer know that you need to take more breaks during your day.  With that in mind, with this post I want to share that two important stretches that I like to give to the patients of my San Diego Chiropractic practice that are specifically intended to help them reduce tension in their necks and upper backs.

Work Stretches Help Reduce Neck Pain

1. One of the common stretches that I like to give my San Diego Chiropractic patients targets the upper back between the shoulder blades and the back of the neck. Since most of us tend to hold our stress as muscle tension in this area of the body this stretch can be very very effective for reducing stress when performed consistently. The stretch that I am referring to is known as “eagle arms” and it can easily be done while sitting at your desk making it one of the most effective work stretches. This stretch is performed by flexing one elbow at 90 degrees and raising that same arm in front of your body slightly toward the mid-line.  Do the same with your other arm only this time capture your already raised arm in the crook of your elbow then gently wrap your forearms around each other.  With your arms in this position, raise your arms upward as a single unit while slowly dropping your chin to your chest.  This position should create a comfortable stretch that spans your upper back and neck. This stretch should be held for 30 to 60 seconds and it should be comfortable.  Do this stretch several times throughout your day.
2. neck pain treatment stretch that I like to give is what I call the sit on your hand stretch. Much like the previous stretch, this one can be done while sitting at your desk making it both convenient and easy.  This stretch is performed by sitting on one hand with your palm facing upward.  Once your body weight is on your hand you need to sit upright as straight as you can – this should generate a perceivable traction between your neck and your shoulder. Maintaining that posture, tilt your body slightly away from the hand that you are sitting on and then tilt your head away from that side as well.  The final part of this stretch is to tuck your chin to your chest.  This position should produce a nice comfortable stretch in your neck and shoulder.  Do both sides and hold them for 30 to 60 seconds.  Do this stretch several times throughout your day.

Additional neck pain relief information available here:
www.chiropractorsandiegomissionvalley.com/neck-pain-san-diego

 

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