Alternative Treatments for Neck Pain

A doctor could recommend alternative treatments, as part of a plan for neck pain like acupuncture, herbal compounds, and yoga. You may want to try them out yourself. Many have reported that these have really helped. Please consult a doctor before trying any alternative therapies. These are safe but should be set-up by a professional to make sure they are done safely. For example, there could be negative interactions between herbs, supplements, and other medications being used.

Acupuncture

This is an eastern approach to healing. Acupuncture focuses on the body’s energy force known as Qi or Chi. When the energy is blocked from flowing this is when physical illnesses develop. Acupuncture restores the healthy energy flow. It isn’t better or worse it is just different.

Herbal Medicine

There are herbal compounds that have proven to be useful for neck pain.

Capsaicin Cream

Capsaicin is a chili pepper extract and can help relieve neck pain. It temporarily reduces pain. Capsaicin cream can help with osteoarthritis and muscle pain, which both cause neck pain.

Devil’s Claw

Devil’s claw comes from southern Africa, where it has been used for centuries to treat fever, arthritis, and gastrointestinal problems. It is used for conditions that cause inflammation and pain, like cervical osteoarthritis.

White Willow Bark

White willow bark is how aspirin in Europe was developed. Synthetic versions like aspirin can irritate the stomach, which is why the natural white willow bark is used instead. It helps with conditions that cause pain and inflammation like osteoarthritis.

Massage

Neck pain can be caused by stress, overuse, and misuse. Misuse means like sitting hunched over a computer for too long every day will take its toll. Massage helps to release tension, relieve muscle inflammation, and pain. Regular massages could help as a preventative measure.

Yoga/Pilates

Yoga and Pilates can increase core strength, improve balance, posture, and reduce stress. These can all help deal with neck pain/ prevent neck pain when done correctly and safely. Neck pain relief can be found with these treatments. Treatments that focus on relieving tension or stress can prove especially helpful if the pain is related to tight muscles and the physical effects of stress.

These alternative treatments could work at their optimal in combination with other therapies. This is to fully address the underlying spinal condition/root cause, along with any other neck-related symptoms.

Neck Pain Chiropractic Care

NCBI Resources