In the age of advanced technology, the world of gaming has expanded beyond our wildest imaginations. However, with this surge in popularity, a silent menace has crept into the lives of avid gamers – poor posture, spinal issues, and the relentless foe: neck pain. As gamers immerse themselves in captivating virtual worlds, they often neglect the well-being of their bodies, paving the way for long-term repercussions.
The Perils of Poor Posture: The allure of extended gaming sessions often results in gamers adopting unhealthy postures for extended periods. Slouching, craning the neck forward, and hunching over the controller can lead to spinal misalignment, muscle strain, and, most notably, neck pain. The neck, being a sensitive and delicate part of the body, is highly susceptible to the adverse effects of prolonged poor posture.
Long-Term Implications: The consequences of neglecting proper ergonomics during gaming sessions extend beyond immediate discomfort. Chronic neck pain can trigger persistent headaches and contribute to upper limb problems such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). Over time, these issues can evolve into more severe spinal problems, affecting overall well-being and quality of life.
Enter necksaviour: The Ultimate Solution: Amidst the growing concern for gamers' health, a genuine solution emerges – necksaviour. This innovative solution provides instant relief and long-term benefits without the need for elaborate setups. Here's why necksaviour is the perfect antidote to gaming-induced posture problems:
Additional Tips for Gamers: While necksaviour is a game-changer, incorporating these habits into your gaming routine can further alleviate the negative effects:
In conclusion, the surge in gaming's popularity has inadvertently given rise to health concerns, with poor posture and neck pain at the forefront. necksaviour emerges as a beacon of relief, offering both immediate respite and long-term benefits for gamers looking to prioritize their well-being. Remember, a healthy gaming experience goes beyond conquering virtual realms – it's about conquering the battle against posture-related ailments.
Introduction
Cycling enthusiasts know the exhilaration of the open road and the rush of wind against their faces. However, this seemingly idyllic experience is not without its challenges, with neck pain emerging as a common complaint among cyclists. In this blog, we'll explore why cycling and the riding position can lead to neck strain and discomfort, and how innovative solutions like necksaviour can offer relief and make a thoughtful present for avid cyclists.
Why Does Cycling Cause Neck Pain?
The cycling position, characterized by a forward-leaning posture, places a unique set of demands on the neck and upper body. Here's why cyclists often find themselves grappling with neck pain:
"Why does my neck hurt when I cycle?"
Well...if you sat like this in a chair you'd be surprised if your neck DIDN'T hurt!!
Solutions for Neck Pain in Cycling
Introducing necksaviour: The Perfect Solution
necksaviour is a revolutionary and multiple award-winning product designed to alleviate neck pain and strain, making it an ideal solution for cyclists. This neck stretcher provides gentle traction to the neck, helping to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. Here's why necksaviour makes a thoughtful present for cycling enthusiasts:
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Present for Pain-Free Pedalling
As cycling enthusiasts continue to pursue their passion, addressing neck pain becomes a priority for a more enjoyable riding experience. necksaviour offers a thoughtful solution, providing portable and effective relief for cyclists dealing with neck strain. This innovative product not only aids in recovery but also demonstrates a considerate understanding of the challenges cyclists face. Gift a necksaviour to the cycling enthusiast in your life and let them pedal through their adventures with comfort and ease.
Not only do I see patients in clinic directly about their headaches, patients also often mention them as I take a history regarding other problems.
When it comes to headaches, not all are created equal. Two common but distinct types are migraines and cervicogenic headaches. While both can be intensely painful and disruptive, understanding the differences between them can be crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
1. Origin and Causes:
Migraines: Migraines are neurological in nature and typically
involve abnormal brain activity. They are often triggered by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, specific foods, or even sensory stimuli like bright lights or loud sounds. Genetics can also play a role in predisposition to migraines.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Cervicogenic headaches, on the other hand, have their origin in the neck or cervical spine. These headaches result from structural issues, such as muscle tension, joint dysfunction, or nerve compression in the neck. Poor posture, injury, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis can contribute to cervicogenic headaches.
2. Location of pain
Migraines: Migraine pain is typically one-sided and often described as throbbing or pulsating. It can be located anywhere on the head, but it often starts on one side and may shift over time. Migraines are known for causing severe, debilitating pain.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Pain from cervicogenic headaches is usually felt on one side of the head and neck and can radiate to the forehead or behind the eye. This is the reason they are so commonly confused for migraines. Unlike migraines, the pain is often described as a dull, aching sensation that doesn't pulsate.
3. Symptoms:
Migraines: Migraines are frequently accompanied by a range of other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances known as auras. These symptoms can be as disabling as the headache itself.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Cervicogenic headaches are primarily characterized by neck pain and stiffness. In some cases, you may experience limited neck mobility or pain when moving your neck. Unlike migraines, they tend to spare you from the sensory sensitivities and auras associated with migraines.
4. Duration:
Migraines: Migraines can last for hours to days, often requiring bed rest and a dark, quiet room for relief. They tend to have distinct phases, including the premonitory phase, aura (if present), headache phase, and postdrome.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Cervicogenic headaches are usually more persistent and can be chronic. They may linger for days, weeks, or even months, depending on the underlying causes and if the correct treatment or management is implemented.
5. Triggers:
Migraines: Migraine triggers are diverse and individualized, often including stress, hormonal changes, specific foods, and environmental factors. Identifying and managing triggers can be an essential part of migraine treatment.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Cervicogenic headaches are often triggered or exacerbated by poor posture, neck injury, or activities that strain the neck, such as prolonged computer use or improper ergonomics.
6. Treatment:
Migraines: Migraine treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and preventive strategies. Medications range from pain relievers to specific migraine drugs. Lifestyle changes might include stress reduction, dietary adjustments, and maintaining regular sleep patterns.
Cervicogenic Headaches: Treatment for cervicogenic headaches typically involves addressing the underlying cervical spine issues. This may include physiotherapy, traction, massage, stretching, postural corrections, and if these measures prove unsuccessful in severe cases injections or nerve blocks for pain relief.
In summary, migraines and cervicogenic headaches have distinct characteristics, origins, and symptoms. Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the appropriate treatment and management plan. If you experience chronic or severe headaches, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance on how to manage and alleviate your specific type of headache.
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What is Neck Traction?
Neck traction, also known as cervical traction, is a non-invasive therapy that involves the application of force to stretch and decompress the cervical spine (neck area). It can be performed by healthcare professionals or using devices designed for home use. This therapy aims to relieve pressure on the neck's structures, including muscles, discs, and nerves, ultimately providing relief from neck pain.
1. Pain relief
One of the primary reasons people turn to neck traction is to alleviate neck pain. By gently stretching the neck and increasing the intervertebral space, traction can reduce compression on the nerves and discs. This relief of pressure can help alleviate pain associated with conditions like herniated discs, pinched nerves, and muscle spasms.
2. Reduction or avoidance of medication
Many pain relieving and anti-inflammatory medications come with undesirable side effects. Additionally, these medications can be contraindicated for many people, therefore any independent management such as use of home traction devices can be very beneficial.
3. Improved posture
Poor posture is a common contributor to neck pain. Neck traction can help correct posture-related issues by promoting proper spinal alignment. When the spine is in its natural curvature, the muscles can function optimally, reducing the likelihood of strain and discomfort.
4. Enhanced range of motion
Neck traction can increase the range of motion in the cervical spine. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who have stiffness or limited mobility in the neck. As the spine becomes more flexible, it becomes easier to perform everyday activities and engage in exercises that promote long-term neck health.
5. Stress reduction
Tension and stress can contribute to neck pain and discomfort. Neck traction not only addresses physical aspects but also provides a sense of relaxation and stress relief. Many people find the process of traction soothing and a valuable component of their pain management routine.
6. Potential avoidance of surgery
In some cases, neck traction may help individuals avoid more invasive treatments like surgery. By providing relief and promoting healing, it can be an effective option for those looking to explore non-surgical alternatives for neck-related conditions.
Conclusion
Neck traction is a therapeutic approach that offers numerous potential benefits for individuals suffering from neck pain and related issues. While it's generally safe, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any traction therapy, especially if you have underlying medical conditions. When performed correctly and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, neck traction can be a valuable tool in alleviating pain, improving posture, and enhancing overall neck health. Remember, individual results may vary, so it's crucial to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your specific condition.
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Cycling and triathlons are popular forms of endurance sports that offer a multitude of physical and mental benefits. They improve cardiovascular health, build strength, and provide a sense of accomplishment. However, like any physical activity, they can also bring about certain challenges, one of which is neck pain. Neck pain is a common complaint among cyclists and triathletes, often stemming from the prolonged and repetitive nature of these sports. In this blog, we'll delve into why cycling and triathlons can cause neck pain and explore ways to mitigate and prevent this discomfort.
1. Prolonged Posture
Cycling and triathlons involve maintaining a forward-leaning posture for extended periods. This position places a significant amount of stress on the neck, as the rider's head is required to stay in an upward position to maintain visibility while the body is bent forward. This prolonged posture can lead to muscle fatigue, strain, and tension in the neck and upper back muscles.
2. Improper Bike Fit
One of the primary contributors to neck pain in cyclists and triathletes is an improper bike fit. If the bike is not adjusted correctly to match the individual's body proportions and flexibility, it can lead to biomechanical issues. A bike that is too large or too small can force the rider into an uncomfortable position, causing them to crane their neck to see the road ahead. This misalignment can lead to overuse of neck muscles, resulting in pain and discomfort.
3. Limited Neck Mobility
The aerodynamic position required in triathlons can restrict neck mobility. During the swim, bike, and run segments, triathletes tend to keep their head in a relatively fixed position to optimize aerodynamics and maintain balance. This lack of movement can cause stiffness and muscle imbalances in the neck and upper back, ultimately leading to pain and reduced flexibility.
4. Excessive Tension in Upper Body
Both cycling and triathlons demand a stable core and upper body engagement to maintain control and power output. However, excessive tension in the upper body, often caused by gripping the handlebars tightly or tensing the shoulders, can translate into increased strain on the neck muscles. As the muscles in the upper body become fatigued, the neck might be forced to compensate, resulting in discomfort and pain.
5. Overtraining and Inadequate Recovery
Training for cycling and triathlons involves intense and repetitive movements that can lead to muscle imbalances and overuse injuries. Overtraining without allowing adequate time for recovery can contribute to tightness and tension in the neck area. When muscles don't have time to repair and rebuild, they can become more prone to strain and pain.
Prevention and Management
Proper Bike Fit: Ensuring that your bike is fitted correctly to your body dimensions is crucial. Consult a professional bike fitter to adjust the saddle height, handlebar position, and other components to match your body mechanics.
Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate exercises that target the muscles of the neck, upper back, and shoulders to improve their strength and endurance. This can help support your neck during rides and reduce strain.
Stretching and Mobility Work: Regularly engage in neck stretches and mobility exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Gradual Training Progression: Avoid overtraining and allow ample time for recovery between sessions. Gradually increase your training intensity and duration to give your muscles time to adapt.
Ergonomic Considerations: Pay attention to your body posture while cycling or participating in triathlons. Relax your grip on the handlebars, keep your shoulders down and relaxed, and periodically adjust your head position to reduce strain on the neck.
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When it comes to home improvement projects, there's an undeniable sense of satisfaction in taking on a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach. From repainting walls to assembling furniture, the satisfaction of a job well done is hard to beat. However, amidst the excitement and creativity, it's essential to consider the toll that decorating and DIY can take on your body, particularly your neck. Here we'll explore the often-overlooked issue of neck strain and ways to mitigate it while pursuing your home improvement dreams.
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Prolonged Poor Posture: One of the primary culprits behind neck strain during decorating and DIY projects is prolonged poor posture. Whether you're hunched over while painting baseboards or straining your neck to reach awkward corners, maintaining improper posture for extended periods places excessive stress on your neck muscles, ligaments, and joints. This can lead to discomfort, stiffness, and more severe issues over time.
Looking Up and Looking Down: Decorating often involves looking up and looking down repetitively. While painting ceilings or installing flooring, you might find yourself tilting your head upwards or downwards for extended periods. This unnatural position can strain the muscles in your neck and upper back, leading to tension and discomfort.
Awkward Angles and Overhead Tasks: Many DIY tasks require reaching, stretching, and twisting to access tight corners or overhead spaces. These actions put undue stress on your neck, as well as your shoulders and back. The strain increases when you're holding tools, paints, or heavy materials while maneuvering in uncomfortable positions.
Heavy Lifting and Improper Techniques: During decorating and DIY projects, lifting and moving heavy objects can be common. Poor lifting techniques can cause strain in your neck and upper back, especially if you're not using your leg muscles to bear the weight. Additionally, sudden movements or lifting items that are too heavy for your capacity can result in muscle pulls or even more severe injuries.
Preventing Neck Strain - Tips and Techniques:
1. Maintain Good Posture: Whether you're painting, hammering, or assembling furniture, make a conscious effort to maintain good posture. Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and your neck aligned with your spine.
2. Take Breaks: Avoid continuous periods of repetitive motion. Take short breaks every 20-30 minutes to stretch, move around, and give your neck and shoulders a chance to relax.
3. Use Proper Tools: Invest in tools that are ergonomically designed and suited for the task at hand. Proper tools can reduce the strain on your body.
4. Warm-Up and Stretch: Treat DIY projects like a workout. Warm-up your muscles with light stretches before you begin and cool down after you finish. Focus on neck, shoulder, and back stretches.
5. Enlist Help: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance, especially for tasks that involve heavy lifting or awkward angles. Having a helping hand can significantly reduce the strain on your body.
6. Alternate Tasks: Instead of dedicating long hours to a single task, alternate between activities that use different muscle groups. This can prevent overuse of specific muscles and reduce the risk of strain.
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While decorating and DIY projects can be incredibly rewarding, it's crucial to prioritize your physical well-being. Neck strain is a common yet often underestimated issue that can result from these activities. By adopting proper posture, taking breaks, using the right tools, and being mindful of your body's limitations, you can enjoy your home improvement ventures without putting undue stress on your neck and overall musculoskeletal system. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring that your DIY endeavors are both creatively fulfilling and physically safe.
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1. Introduce yourself
Matt, married father of 3 children. I live in Saltash, Cornwall.
2. What is your passion?
Aside from time with my wife and children my passion is Jiu-Jitsu for self defence. I started training under black belt Professor Danny Macmillan at Macmillan Martial Arts Academy in Plymouth 29th March 2014
]]>1. Introduce yourselfMatt, married father of 3 children. I live in Saltash, Cornwall. I chose to set up social media accounts to document and journal my first steps into Jiu-Jitsu right through until the day I can no longer study the art. I have managed them for almost 10 years now, keeping an honest, down to earth perspective of a normal guy trying to better himself.2. What is your passion?Aside from time with my wife and children my passion is Jiu-Jitsu for self defence. I started training under black belt Professor Danny Macmillan at Macmillan Martial Arts Academy in Plymouth 29th March 2014 and haven’t looked back since.3. How did you get into Jiu-Jitsu?I used to be a police officer and felt that I was getting into more and more situations that highlighted I needed to supplement my training. I researched locations that specifically catered for self defence because I didn’t want to train for Jiu-Jitsu as a sport and have reflexes that may not keep me safe in a real fight. I’ve trained consistently since I began in 2014. The more I’ve trained, the further and deeper into training I’ve wanted to go. It’s an endless pursuit of personal betterment.4. Choose your top 5 dinner guestsRicky Gervais, Salma Hayek, Ryan Holiday, Christian Bale & George Saint Pierre.5. What is your favourite book?The Book of Five Rings - Miyamoto Musashi.6. What is your favourite film?The Dark Knight.7. What is your favourite song / artist?NF, fantastic down to earth music with clean lyrics.8. Why you use necksaviour and how it helps?I have a condition called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. I get a lot of neck pain and tension from it, which is worsened by a chronic neck injury I sustained in training. In lockdowns I wasn’t able to access my normal chiropractor/sports therapy services so started researching ways to help myself at home. I found the necksaviour!I’d go as far as saying that without my daily necksaviour routine I would have had to stop practicing Jiu-Jitsu. It allows me to keep on top of my neck, remain pain free, sleep better and allow myself to train against people half my age under a lot of resistance. I use it twice daily for 10 minutes. I’ve made it as much a part of my routine as brushing my teeth.9. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?I’d like to think that I would be a well rounded black belt of Jiu-Jitsu for self defence by that time. Aside from that as long as my family is happy and healthy, I’ll be more than content.10. What is the best bit of advice you’ve been given or your best bit of advice for others?It’s more of a proverb, but fall down 7 times, stand up 8. Keep going. Keep moving yourself forward. Don’t give into adversity, adapt. There is always a way to stand up when you are knocked down.
Listen to this enlightening and fascinating podcast with Matt Mann -Follow Matt Mann here -Instagram - @jiujitsuismuchmorethanyouthinkFacebook - Jiu-Jitsu is much more than you thinkTik Tok - @jjismuchmorethanyouthink
The passion started in teenage years. First parentless holidays with friends. Heady, carefree long summer days in the company of equally carefree mates. Hungover days spent in the waves of Newquay in Cornwall with cheap bodyboards and ill fitting hired wetsuits.
No lessons and no google to understand what on earth we should be doing. At times when the surf was large i'm pretty sure we were a danger to ourselves. It could be an effect of time and a degree of romanticising but I think I can remember 5-6 hour sessions at a time just trying to catch a wave bigger than previously achieved or even better to catch the same 'monster' as a mate, looking across at each other with the same smug satisfaction of achievement and a moment shared in time.
When the swell settled, when we were unable to feel our feet or hands we would finally give in and switch efforts to finding high calorific food and booze. Typically this would take the form of a Cornish Pasty, heavily salted chips and numerous pints of Stella.
We suffered for our pleasure though and I'm not only talking about the hangovers. Aching limbs from the exertion, bumps and bruises from being hit by our board or surfers full boards when we strayed into waters forbidden by flags we ignored in search of the dream wave. It was at this time I started to be aware of having neck pain. It wasn't so very obvious at that time and I wasn't a Physiotherapist then so there was no mental diagnosis occurring.
Was it sun burn? Was it the wetsuit rubbing? Or was it the constant looking up trying to spot waves? Probably a combination.
There were other factors too. Sleeping in freezing tents and camper vans and the two horrendous rolled car crashes I was involved in around that time. What i did become aware of was that I felt more discomfort in my neck with each subsequent trip.
When I become a physio in my late twenties it wasn't hard to put 2 and 2 together and understand why I felt neck pain and what I needed to do to minimise it.
As a hopeless middle aged surfer (my wife would laugh her head off at the 'surfer' part of that) I now have to be really careful. It hasn't helped that I tried to make the transition from bodyboarding to surfing way too late in life.
So why does body boarding and surfing take its toll and cause neck pain for so many?
Well here comes the biomechanical explanation so strap yourselves in...
The number one issue is the position and pressure driven through the small boney joints either side of your neck called facet joints. Lying on a surf or body board spotting waves is the equivalent of looking up at the sky or ceiling while standing for all the time you are in the water!
The second main reason is the muscle groups in use for spotting, paddling and popping. These muscles are trapezius, particularly upper trapezius, erector spinae and levator scapulae. Yawn, 'So what?' you're thinking. Well they all have strong attachments to the neck and in particular around the facet joints which then suffer even more and neck muscle spasms and neck pain ensue.
Then there's those moments where it all goes horribly wrong! Being tumbled in a wave or misjudging a wave you want to get past. That jarring is equivalent to whiplash and can occur many times over in a single session.
What needs to be done?
These muscles need to be strong but equally or arguably more importantly they need to be a good length and stretched regularly. Then there's those pesky facet joints. They need to be reopened or 'decompressed' to relieve the pressure and neck pain. Below are some very useful stretches that should be done before, during and after wherever possible.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Coe-CDFtuW3/?hl=en
As a physio and neck pain sufferer I'm lucky in that I know exactly what to do. It's not easy to do it regularly and like everyone I get lazy about it. In addition to my own problems I see people in my clinic ( https://hertsphysio.co.uk/ ) daily with neck pain and headaches too. For them, myself and for wider communities like surfers I wished I could recommend a product to help with neck pain but the other ones look like this...
and for various reasons just aren't great.
So I did something about it. necksaviour is a super portable, easy to use, effective and triple award winning product.
There's a load more information here - https://www.necksaviour.com/
but in addition we are here to help if you need any more information.
As a footnote I was lucky enough to Visit Nazaré in Portugal just recently. The home of giant waves. A town and surf venue loved by the incredible athletes that are big wave surfers. These men and women are my heroes and being a Physiotherapist and having dabbled on a board I have no idea how they do what they do and can only imagine the toll it must take on them physically.
My physiotherapy knowledge and necksaviour will, going forward keep me in the water longer with less neck pain than would otherwise be possible. I'm pleased for that and the chance it gives me to keep dreaming (and exaggerating) about my surfing achievements!
Here to help if you have any neck pain, surfing neck or necksaviour questions at all.
]]>The average adult head weighs 10-12lbs. That's heavy enough even when it is positioned at the top of a spine that is in perfect alignment.
The moment the head moves into a more forward position e.g. when looking down at a phone, the weight of the head effectively increases. That's just physics and how levers work unfortunately. This can easily be understood if we think about how much harder it is to hold a heavy object away from our bodies than it is to hold it close. If the head and neck is at 60 degrees the weight can increase to a massive 60lbs!!! That's the weight of an average 8 year old!!
This is still the case even with a slightly different head position when sitting badly working at a laptop where the chin is poking forward.
These positions can become a very bad habit and the spinal curves become very stiff in this position. The muscles have to over work so hard they go into spasm. Those muscles and ligaments also change length as a result. We need to make the following changes:
necksaviour can help restore the natural shape of the neck (cervical spine) and show the user where their neck and head position should be again. It also stretches the muscles, tendons and ligaments and opens the joints taking pressure away from the intervertebral discs and nerves. It also increases much needed blood flow. All while you just lie down and relax :)
]]>The forces they create were tested on a tailor made jig at The University of Hertfordshire's Engineering department.
It was great for us to get further evidence of the effect they create with X-ray imaging.
We had X-rays carried out both with and without necksaviour in place.
A consultant radiographer reported that the disc spaces were more visualised on the X-ray with necksaviour.
Improved disc space means less pressure on discs and facet joints and more space for spinal nerve roots. This should in turn mean less symptoms such as pain and muscle spasm.
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Although a giraffe's neck is 1.5 - 1.8 metres in length, it contains the same number of vertebrae as a human neck.
The human neck is an incredible structure! It starts at the base of the skull and through a series of seven boney blocks called vertebral bodies it attaches to the upper back.
The first vertebra in our neck is called the Atlas. It is named after the Greek mythological figure who was burdened with 'carrying the world on top of his shoulders' much like the way in which the neck supports and carries the weight of the head.
The head weighs on average between 10 - 13 pounds, so the neck (cervical spine) literally shoulders a big load. In addition to supporting the head, the neck's anatomy allows for the head's incredible mobility, including rotational, forward / back and side bending motions.
The vertebra in the neck also provide a passageway for vertebral arteries to ensure proper blood flow to the brain. The neck houses and protects the all important spinal cord and provides a passageway and protection for nerve roots that supply the head, shoulders and upper limbs.
For the most part, the cervical vertebrae are extremely durable and resistant to injury.
Most neck pain is the result of wear and tear and not injury, although if we suffer injuries too that can only make the situation worse.
What does all this mean?
If we understand the importance of the neck and what an incredible structure it is then we might take more care of it and give it all the help it needs to be able to function the way it needs to.
Can we undo what has gone before? In some cases yes, in some cases no but we can certainly try to stop problems worsening and gain relief by doing all the right things whenever possible. We are all so busy so it's not easy but just a few minutes a day focusing on the spine and neck can really make a difference!
]]>Take a look at the image above, did you have any idea that there were so many layers of muscles in the neck?! We've said it before but...we aren't very kind to our necks...
]]>Take a look at the image above, did you have any idea that there were so many layers of muscles in the neck?! We've said it before but...we aren't very kind to our necks. With poor posture comes muscle imbalance. When we are in poor posture we use muscles that are designed to move the head and neck to do a stability role. They aren't designed to do that so what happens?.... they go into spasm. The joints associated with them then become stiff and painful leading to more spasm and round and round it goes in a cycle.
To make matters worse the spasm can lead to what is known as trigger points in the muscle. These trigger points then lead to pain somewhere else, very often into the head. Check out the distribution of trigger points in the image below. You can see the correlation between some of the muscles named above and the region they refer pain to.
Splenius Cervicis....I get that one!
There are many things you can do to help this problem in both the short and long term. necksaviour Mini does 3 of the most important ones:
Just taking a few minutes a day to use necksaviour Mini can not only give you the above benefits but will mean a much needed little relaxation time too!
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It's been a while, actually much longer than we thought it would be since Minis were available directly from us. The wait is nearly over and we expect to open up Mini sales again in 2 weeks.....sooner if possible :)
necksaviour will also have new packaging. The drawstring bag with carabiner stays but in addition Mini now comes in a box that not only looks great but will protect it in transit. Will share some images of that really soon!
Thank you for your patience and as always if you have any questions before or after purchasing your necksaviour just get in touch.
Wes & Team necksaviour
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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/364817262/necksaviour-mini-the-easiest-way-to-stretch-your-n
...and our follow up Indiegogo campaign:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/necksaviour-mini-the-easy-neck-stretcher-yoga#/
Take a look at the links above for more information.
necksaviour Mini still has a light or strong stretch but is 30% smaller which makes it even more portable.
Great if space is limited in a work or gym bag or even a suitcase when travelling. The ideal travel companion!
More information to follow :)
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Contact us at info@necksaviour.com for FREE TICKETS ASAP :)
See you there!!!
Wes
]]>Hi Wes! Tell us your story.
Hi! I’ve been a chartered physio for 18 years. I graduated from The University of Hertfordshire in 1998. I’ve worked in the NHS, private hospitals, at Ipswich Town FC for 10 years. I‘ve also run my own clinic Herts Physio for 16 years.
Where does necksaviour fit in to this?
I’ve treated countless patients who suffer from neck pain – it’s something I see everyday. I was very unsatisfied with the existing products, and just felt for a long time that there must be a better way, so I decided to create one – and I’m very glad I did.
Necksaviour is now invaluable to me in clinic. Before, I regularly wished I could include traction in a patient’s treatment regime. Now I can as it’s just so simple and quick to apply using necksaviour, my patients can be gaining the benefit within seconds.
I assume you use your necksaviour often? When do you find it most useful?
Absolutely! I use it before, after cycling and mountain biking – the alignment of the spine when anyone cycles isn’t great, as both the mid and low regions of the spine are hunched or ‘flexed’. This means the neck is excessively extended. For me, it’s an easy and effective way of undoing the effects of this by stretching the muscles and ligaments – and it’s become a crucial part of my cycling routine.
I also (like most people) spend a lot of time working on the computer. It’s really important to have a workstation assessment in order to reduce the impact of this, but unfortunately, it’s impossible to completely stop it. After long hours working on the computer, I find necksaviour really useful to relieve pressure, relax the neck and realign the shape of the spine and the neck in particularly to where it should be.
What’s your favourite feature?
I love how lightweight and portable it is. I’m a very active and busy person so it really needs to be something I can carry around with me easily – and it is, weighing just 58grams (2oz). It’s a great travel companion. Also I love the fact that when people try it they like the feeling so much they want one for using at home or travel.
Each necksaviour is also really versatile. It has a light or strong stretch and a long or short neck option. Users can try each option and see which suits them.
What were the necksaviour highlights in 2016?
Definitely winning the Medical Design Excellence Award – that was a real highlight! But also, more day-to-day, just hearing positive stories and reviews from people who use necksaviour – it’s great that it’s helping people all over the world, everyday. As a physiotherapist, I see people really struggling with neck pain and headaches, so much so that is stops them doing the things they love, it’s great to be able offer something which can help.
Any top tips for necksaviour users?
There are three really top tips.
https://www.instagram.com/necksaviour/
https://en-gb.facebook.com/necksaviour/
Thanks for chatting to us, Wes!
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Hi Erika! What first attracted you to our Necksaviour page?
E: “I’ve had physio for my neck and shoulders in the past, which I do end up taking pain relief for. I’ve also had migraines on and off for quite a few years, so I’m always on the look out for things that may help. When I noticed the competition I thought I’d try my luck, but was already considering buying one!”
How do you plan to use Necksaviour?
E: “I’m a hairdresser so I stand up all day, and am constantly twisting around in lots of different positions. At the end of my day at work, my shoulders really ache and are tired. I will definitely use it when I come home from work.
I also go to the gym regularly – having looked at the videos and pictures on the Necksaviour FB, I plan to take it with me to my classes and see how I can use it to support my neck.”
What are your first thoughts having used Necksaviour?
E: “I tried it last night after the gym, I was so tight and my neck and shoulders were aching a lot – it was really comfortable. I can’t tell you how impressed I am!
It’s brilliant – I think everyone should invest in one; it’s so light and easy to take to the gym with me. I really can’t wait for my next class to see how I can use it. Huge thanks again, it’s fabulous.”
Thanks for chatting to us!
A FEW WORDS FROM OUR NEW AND EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
"We are extremely excited & privileged to be involved with this outstanding innovative product.
As soon as I saw necksaviour on the UK website I wanted one, I have suffered with upper back tension for many years and often wake in the morning with a tight painful neck. I have bought about a dozen pillows to try to relieve this, so far nothing has helped.
After the first 5 minutes of using the necksaviour my neck felt great & I was sold. I use it regularly & have felt the discomfort in my upper back ease, it also assists with spinal alignment too which I think most people can benefit from. Not sure what I am going to do with the cupboard full of pillows that I now have…..
My background is in Healthcare, Sports Massage & I am a Yoga Teacher, who has practised for over 20 years, so I am aware & fascinated about the anatomy & physiology of the body. The fact that the necksaviour was invented by a Physiotherapist & that it has won 3 international Design Awards adds so much credibility.
I completely believe in this product & know that it cannot only help people with neck pain, headaches etc but it can be used as a preventative measure & as a relaxation aid used in Yoga /Pilates classes. With this in mind, my business partner & I are delighted to be embarking on a new venture with Epiphany Innovations bringing necksaviour to the southern hemisphere with http://www.necksaviour.com.au"
Julia Toomer
Director JJ2MER
]]>Neck pain is very common for people who cycle, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Cycling should be a comfortable experience. Whether a person uses their bike for transport, recreation, or exercise, a tight or stiff neck can occur. Neck tension and pain can lead to pain in other parts of the upper body and a general feeling of discomfort. This can also lead to future injuries if not treated. It can also mean people are reluctant to use their bikes. The good news is that neck pain from cycling is treatable and preventable.
The alignment of the spine during cycling is not great. The mid and low regions of the spine are excessively hunched or ‘flexed’. As a result of this the rider has to lift their chin away from their chest in order to see ahead. This causes an excessive ‘extension’ of the neck, which compresses the small joints in the neck called facet joints. Additionally the soft tissue at the back of the neck, the muscles, tendons and ligaments are all shortened. As a result the neck will feel uncomfortable and to the rider this can feel like stiffness, tightness or pain.
This whole situation is made worse for two reasons. Firstly, the head is heavy and weighs 12-14lbs even when it is positioned directly on top of the spine. In the cycling position it effectively weighs more than 40lbs so the supporting muscles have to work very, very hard, often for a long period. Some of these muscles weren’t designed to do that role. As a result they go into spasm. The second reason is that the arms are held in a forward position during cycling putting an even greater demand on the same muscles.
Many amateur cyclists also have long hours at work in positions that aren’t ideal either, such as driving or working at a pc, so they are already creating the same type of affect. It is essential therefore that they have a workstation assessment in order that work doesn’t get in the way of bike rides!
STRETCH, STRETCH, STRETCH!!!
The best way to relieve neck pain from cycling is through stretching the muscles and ligaments. This will also open the joints and relieve pressure. It is important to do this before and after cycling but also during any natural breaks in the ride.
One product that helps with stretching is necksaviour. It is very easy and comfortable to use. It's light and portable and the user can often feel the benefit very quickly. Using this device stretches your neck and relieves tension and pain.
For more information on this device check out: https://www.necksaviour.com/.
Once the pain is relieved it is important to prevent pain in the future by continuing to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the neck regularly. The muscles that need strengthening in particular are the Deep Neck Flexors. These are endurance muscles and can improve the alignment of the neck and help to stabilise it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gt7mFR-O_1U
Improving posture can prevent and improve many spinal problems. Yoga, Pilates and The Alexander Technique are especially helpful. All of this will have added benefits besides helping you to be pain free because they can improve flexibility and health generally.
It is also vital that your bike is ‘set up’ for you personally. Again this can help to prevent cycling neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain and even nerve symptoms such as pins and needles in the hands during or after rides.
Even if you don’t have pain associated with cycling now, exercises and stretching should always be done to keep cycling fun and pain free in the future.
Sources:
http://www.active.com/cycling/articles/exercises-to-treat-shoulder-and-neck-pain-from-cycling
http://www.womenscycling.ca/blog/bicycle-fit/cycling-can-be-a-pain-in-the-neck-part-1/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/395237-neck-pain-while-riding-a-road-bike/
]]>We also understand that reducing reliance on medication is extremely important and as a result of our studies into the need of easy, pill free and affordable neck pain treatment, necksaviour was born. Necksaviour stretches the cervical area of the spine, a technique called ‘traction’.
]]>We also understand that reducing reliance on medication is extremely important and as a result of our studies into the need of easy, pill free and affordable neck pain treatment, necksaviour was born. Necksaviour stretches the cervical area of the spine, a technique called ‘traction’.
What is Traction?
For those going through the experience of exasperating neck pain, upper back pain or tension headaches, traction of the neck, which is also known as cervical traction, is a commonly used therapy with many proven benefits. In traction, tension is used to gently pull the head and neck, which stretches both the muscles and ligaments around the vertebrae of the spine which consequently expands the space between the vertebrae. The aim of traction is to relax muscles, open facet joints and allow pressure on any pinched nerves to be relieved.
Who uses Traction?
Traction has a fantastic reputation of being an incredibly effective way of treating neck pain and as a result of having this status, therapists use cervical spine traction to treat a variety of neck pain causes. Stretching helps to relieve compression and neck muscle spasm by stretching apart the vertebrae of the spine. Traction can help to relieve the pain caused by worn spinal discs.
What Sort of Pain is Helped by Traction?
Neck pain and upper back pain can be caused by numerous factors and it’s important to find out the exact cause before treating it. If you’re experiencing pain from the middle or side of your neck or in the shoulder blade region, traction could well be beneficial to you. If you have problems in your neck, it can often be felt as pain, numbness or tingling in your arm or hand due to pressure on the nerve root in the neck. This is something to be aware of when having your condition diagnosed.
Traction can help to decrease compressive forces in the neck. It alleviates pressure from the discs and additionally opens the spaces around the vertebrae to relieve pressure from any compressed nerves. Similarly, traction can be used to alleviate pain felt in muscles and joint structures in the neck, which can be caused by:
- Tension
- Herniated (bulging) discs in the neck
- Neck arthritis
- Neck strains
- Cervical muscle spasms
- Poor posture
- Leisure activities such as cycling
Is There More than One Type of Traction?
Yes, there are two main types of traction used to stretch out the cervical spine:
- Manual Traction: Manual traction is performed by a doctor or therapist whereby the patient lies on a table and the therapist uses their hands to physically pull the head and neck. Depending on the type of discomfort, the head can be also be turned side to side. This rhythmic pulling force is what helps to alleviate the pain.
- Mechanical Traction: This form of traction involves tension provided from mechanical means (like necksaviour!). The unit provides enough tension to gently stretch and pull the neck to relieve your body of neck, shoulder or upper back pain. This type of traction can be used intermittently for days, weeks, months or years depending on how well you respond to the treatment.
Can I Do Cervical Traction at Home?
Absolutely! Traction can easily be done at home with equipment such as necksaviour without the need for a doctor or therapist. That’s one of the biggest benefits of our ingenious little necksaviour device – It can be used practically anywhere. Neck pain can strike at any time and waiting to see someone for treatment can for some be detrimental which is why we believe that it’s so important to be able to carry your treatment around with you whenever possible.
We can’t stress just how important it is to ensure that your neck/back/head pains are diagnosed by a professional before embarking on a treatment course. Traction is an incredibly effective method of relieving musculoskeletal pain but it’s always advisable to see a professional to check if the condition could be more serious or if there are any underlying issues that cannot be treated by traction alone.
]]>This is great recognition for our innovative neck stretching device that has very quickly become popular around the world with people who suffer from neck pain, pain in the upper back, pain in the shoulders and headaches, particularly tension headaches.
Our triple award winning neck stretch product can help people who suffer with these problems due to an arthritic neck, poor neck posture, neck injuries. It can also help people that have a stiff neck, particularly after sport or exercise. Many cyclists suffer with cycling neck pain during or after rides. Neck pain and headaches can also be as a result of working at a computer for many hours. Long car journeys and manual jobs can cause tight muscles in the neck and upper back.
Regular use of necksaviour can help to reduce or eliminate the effects of these problems.
]]>http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/videos/fitness/cycling-neck-pain-prevent-treat
Doing exercises before and after cycling to stretch the neck is very important. This video is excellent.
necksaviour can also be a great help to use for the muscle spasm, tension and joint stiffness that is associated with this type of activity.
]]>Expos are a great place to demonstrate how easy necksaviour is to use and how quickly users can gain neck pain and headache relief.
Well done to the Balancecord Team!
]]>UK Patent No. 2500600
It's been a great year for necksaviour with 2 prestigious design awards and a granted patent.
necksaviour has been helping people from all over the world gain neck pain and headache relief from Africa to the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand all over Europe and the Far East.
Thanks to all our loyal customers and supporters!
]]>Chaque jour des startups du monde entier créent les produits de demain. Nous les trouvons pour vous.
Or!
Daily startups from around the world create the products of tomorrow. We find them for you.
]]>Other winners include: Boeing, HTC, Panasonic, Dell, Dolby, Leitz, Whirlpool.
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