In today’s world with people sitting on their computers for hours at a stretch, a stiff neck has become a very common problem. Besides working on the computer, some other reasons for stiff neck can be bad posture, carrying heavy loads, an injury or trauma to the neck and sleeping in the wrong position. Some disorders such as cancer, meningitis and rheumatoid arthritis can also cause stiffness in the neck. Though this is not a serious medical condition but it can cause difficulty in performing a number of daily activities as well as hinder sleep. The good news is that a few simple home remedies and lifestyle changes can ease the stiffness and pain and make life easier.
Here Are Top 10 Ways To Treat Stiff Neck Easily At Home:
Epsom Salt
Since it is made using a chemical compound called magnesium sulfate, Epsom salt is extremely helpful in easing stiff neck. It works by regulating the activity of enzymes in our body and even boosts circulation. Thus, it reduces stress and muscle tension and helps to get rid of stiffness. To use this remedy, add about 2 cups of this salt to your bathtub filled with warm water and soak yourself in it till your neck for a minimum of 15-20 minutes. Repeat the Epsom salt bath thrice a week to get effective results.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used since centuries for treating inflammation and pain due to its great anti-inflammatory properties. Besides this, it also helps in improving blood circulation. To use turmeric for treating stiff neck, take a teaspoonful of turmeric powder and mix it in a cup of milk. Heat it up and add a little honey. Drink this concoction twice daily for a week and you will forget that you ever had a stiff neck. Also include turmeric while cooking your food for better results.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This variety of vinegar is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are effective in fighting stiff neck. It can also prevent the pain and muscle strain that is often associated with nutritional deficiencies. To use apple cider vinegar for treating stiff neck, soak a piece of paper towel in unfiltered and undiluted apple cider vinegar. Then place it on the affected region for few hours. After a few days of treatment, you will find complete relief.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil contains menthol which is very effective in soothing stiffness in the neck. Not only this, it has great analgesic properties that helps in reducing discomfort and pain associated with stiff neck. Take 2 teaspoons of any carrier oil such as olive oil in a bowl and heat it up for few seconds. Then add 2-3 drops of peppermint oil to it and use it to massage your neck. Repeat the therapy for few days continuously to get completely relief.
Cayenne Pepper
The compound capsaicin contained in cayenne pepper has wonderful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, thus making it very effective in reducing inflammation and pain caused due to a stiff neck. For this treatment, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in it. Apply the mixture on your stiff neck and then cover the neck with a bandage for few hours. Repeat the process for 3-4 days to find relief. You can also add cayenne pepper in your meals to get relief from the symptoms.
Heat Therapy
Heat therapy is also very effective in reducing the stiffness of the muscles as it boosts blood flow and thus, reduces rigidity. To treat your stiff neck, apply hot compress on your neck for 10 minutes three times a day till your get relief. You can also stand under a shower of hot water for 5 minutes to get the same effect.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.