6 Stretches To Relieve Stiff Shoulders & Neck Muscles

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There are a ton of factors that contribute to sore stiff muscles. One in three people suffer from neck pain or stiffness, with women having a higher percentage than men in those numbers. Neck and shoulder stiffness go hand in hand, especially if you work at a desk where your posture isn't always perfect. Previous injuries can be especially tricky, even though they're healed, they can still cause intermittent stiffness and agitation. When you're in any type of pain your mood drops, physical activities become harder, and you just don't feel like yourself.

Part of a healthy lifestyle includes taking care of your muscles and joints. Chronic issues involving those parts of the body negatively affect routine exercise from walks in the park to high-impact cardio. To combat stiffness in the neck and shoulders, check out these simple but effective stretches. They can be easily implemented in your daily morning routine, workout routine, or night routine.

Shoulder Stretches

1. Shoulder Raises: Stand straight with your arms flat against your sides. Raise your shoulders up towards your ears and hold them for a few seconds, then lower. Repeat this stretch five times, twice a day.

2. Shoulder Rolls: Sit or stand with your back straight and roll your shoulders back and forth. Simple, right? You can perform this stretch while at work or at home without interrupting tasks.

3. Cross Arm Stretch: Grab your left elbow with your right hand as you bend your left arm and bring it across your chest. Hold this position for thirty to forty seconds, then switch. You can push your elbow further to deepen the stretch if your muscles are flexible enough.

1. Ear To Shoulder: Sit somewhere comfortable with your knees up and back straight. Slowly tilt your head to the left until your ear touches your shoulder. Stop if you experience pain beyond stretching out stiff muscles. If you can't get down to your shoulder without experiencing pain, don't worry! Repeating this stretch daily will increase flexibility.

2. Chin To Chest: Sit up straight and slowly lower your chin down to your chest. Hold for five seconds then slowly raise your chin back to the starting position. This can be done a few times a day and at your desk!

3. Side To Side: Turn your head to the side, ensuring your chin runs parallel with your shoulder. Hold this for fifteen seconds then straighten and turn your head to the other side.

Remember, no stretch should be painful! Feeling strain is normal but it shouldn't hurt. Everyone's flexibility is different. Stretching your muscles daily will increase flexibility and lessen joint and muscle pain long-term. You can ease your pain while working, driving, or relaxing at home. Taking care of your body as a whole will help you feel your very best and ensure any exercise won't result in injuries due to muscle stiffness.