Neck stiffness is a common experience for many people, restricting neck movement upon waking up in the morning, causing inconvenience. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers various treatment methods for this common issue:
1. Massage therapy: The patient sits while the physician lightly strokes the neck, back, and shoulders to help relax the muscles. Then, specific acupressure points like Jian Jing and Feng Chi are pressed to promote smooth flow of Qi and blood. Afterward, apply red flower oil or wind oil balm to the neck to further alleviate symptoms.
2. Cupping therapy: Identify tender points on the neck, shoulders, and back, lightly scrape with a three-edged needle, and perform cupping until minimal bleeding occurs. This method helps relieve local tension and pain.
3. Ear acupressure therapy: Select neck and Shen Men acupoints and sensitive points on the ears, stick on green beans, fix them with pain-relieving cream, and press multiple times daily for a few minutes each time.
4. Exercise therapy: Alleviate neck stiffness by performing simple head movements, like bending the head forward to bring the chin close to the chest, then look up at the ceiling, repeating this movement 20 times.
5. Touch therapy: Professionals gently stroke from the top of the patient’s head toward the ears, then down to the neck, applying gentle pressure on tender points to promote blood circulation.
6. Herbal pillow therapy: Mix specific herbs, heat them, place them in a cloth bag, and use it as a pillow in the painful area to relieve neck discomfort with the warmth and medicinal properties of the herbs.
The causes of neck stiffness are diverse, including: – Poor sleeping position: Incorrect sleeping posture, especially with a pillow that is too high or too low, can lead to prolonged tension in the neck muscles, causing spasms. – Exposure to wind and cold: Being exposed to cold during sleep can block the circulation of Qi and blood in the neck, also a common cause of neck stiffness. – Excessive neck movement or injury: Suddenly twisting the neck or carrying heavy loads, as well as exposing the neck to cold during sleep, can all lead to muscle strain and eventually result in neck stiffness.
When experiencing neck stiffness, avoid forcibly turning the neck and opt for adequate rest and gentle self-therapies, as in most cases, symptoms can gradually improve. If the symptoms are severe or do not improve, it is recommended to seek professional medical help.
