The following exercises should cause you to feel a gentle stretch,
but no pain.
Neck stretch
This stretch works best if you keep your
shoulder down as you lean away from it. To help you remember to do this, start
by relaxing your shoulders and lightly holding on to your thighs or your
chair.
Tilt your head toward your shoulder and hold for 15 to 30
seconds.
If you would like a little added stretch, use your hand to
gently and steadily pull your head toward your shoulder. For example, keeping
your right shoulder down, lean your head to the left. Let the weight of your
head stretch your muscles, or use your left hand to pull gently down on your
head.
Repeat 2 to 4 times toward each shoulder.
Diagonal neck stretch
Turn your head slightly toward the direction
you will be stretching, and tilt your head diagonally toward your chest and
hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
If you would like a little added
stretch, use your hand to gently and steadily pull your head forward on the
diagonal.
Repeat 2 to 4 times toward each side.
Primary Medical Reviewer
William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer
David A. Fleckenstein, MPT - Physical Therapy
Last Updated
June 13, 2007
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
June 13, 2007
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