The annoying disorder commonly called "stiff neck" is caused by a contractile of the muscles of the neck and shoulders. Tensions and rigidity can also occur in other parts of the body; wherever they strike, the effects do not change: pain is felt and general well-being is affected.
The sensation is that of having nails stuck in the skin: every movement of the head is felt in the name of the head or in the shoulders; sometimes the pain even prevents moving the affected part of the body. The causes of these tensions are numerous; among the most common, being seated for a long time in the same position (e.g. when reading or working on a computer) or sleeping in uncomfortable positions. Even incorrect postures, stress and excessive physical activity can cause muscle stiffening.
There are various techniques to relax the muscles. For example, ointments for trauma and thermal cushions help to stimulate blood circulation. Even a warm bath, with its relaxing effect, promotes circulation throughout the body. In the case of contraction, it is sometimes useful to practice a message. Who does not have time to go to a professional can try some simple self-massage technique.
Here is a useful stratagem to ease tensions. Just get a ball of rubber or tennis, a piece of rope and a chair with a high back, which allows you to place the ball between the back and shoulders or the nape. With gentle movements and light pressure, the ball is rolled in order to massage the muscles. The rope is used to bring the ball back to the correct position.
A massage or yoga roller can be a valuable ally to combat back muscle tension. Once the roller is placed on the ground, for example on a carpet, you lie down resting on it over your back and you practice a message by sliding the roller on the muscles with slow and short movements.
To avoid new muscle tensions, it would be good to ascertain the origin of the disorder. Often recurrent tensions lead to analgesic postures in order to relieve pain; in this way, however, further stiffeners can be created. If you cannot find the cause of the tension or if the pain persists for a prolonged period, which is for a few weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
SPICA offers companies the "Ergonomics in the workplace" course. Upon request, an expert in ergonomics therapist goes directly to the company and shows each individual employee how to best prepare his workstation. SPICA also organizes another course, "Ergonomics at the workstation at the terminal", which explains how working in front of the screen can cause or aggravate certain disturbances. At the end of the course, participants will be well informed about ergonomic devices and aware of the importance of strengthening the muscles to prevent the pains resulting from prolonged momentariness.
