Why Does My Neck Feel Tight?

Living with levator scapulae pain can be a debilitating experience, impacting everyday activities and causing discomfort.

This type of pain is often characterized by tightness and kinks in the neck, particularly toward the back of the head. It is closely tied to the neck, making simple movements difficult, like turning the head.

How We Address This Discomfort

Treating levator scapulae pain requires addressing multiple factors. Alignment issues in the spine may contribute to muscle tightness, so improving spinal mobility through chiropractic adjustments or physical therapy can help relax the affected muscles. Shockwave therapy and massage can also be beneficial in reducing inflammation and breaking up scar tissue that may have formed from previous injuries. Massage can also help with tight scalene muscles.

The Importance of Restoring Function

The levator scapulae muscle plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and movement in the neck. Weakness in this muscle can lead to compensatory efforts from other muscle groups, resulting in a limited range of motion and loss of function. By stimulating and loosening up the surrounding tissues, we can restore proper function to the levator scapulae and alleviate associated symptoms.

Tips for Avoiding Neck Pain

Practice Good Posture

One of the most common reasons for neck pain is poor posture. When you slouch or hunch over your desk, it strains your neck and shoulder muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. To avoid this, maintain good posture while sitting, standing, and walking. Keep your head aligned with your spine, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the ground.

Take Breaks

If you have a desk job, sitting in one position for long hours can strain your neck and back. To avoid this, take breaks every 30 minutes or so. Get up from your chair and stretch your arms, shoulders, and neck. You can also do simple neck exercises like rotating your head in a circular motion or tilting it from side to side.

Use Ergonomic Equipment

Using the right equipment can make a big difference in preventing neck pain. Invest in an ergonomic chair that properly supports your back and neck. Ensure your computer screen is at eye level to avoid straining your neck while looking down. If you use a phone for prolonged periods, consider investing in a headset to avoid holding it between your ear and shoulder.