Chronic Neck Pain Sufferers Benefit From Weight Training

If you're one of the many who suffer from chronic neck pain, chiropractic care may definitely be your fix. Chiropractors have their 'black-belts", so to speak, when it comes to treating conditions of the soft tissues and spine. One of the many forms of non-invasive treatments chiropractors utilize is exercise. In a recent study, strength exercises were shown to reduce chronic neck and shoulder pain. In this study, 48 women suffering from chronic pain in the trapezius region were randomly assigned to either a supervised strength exercise group or aerobic exercise group. Those in the strength exercise group exercised their neck and shoulder muscles using weights, performing basic exercises such as shoulder shrugs and side laterals. Women in the aerobic exercise group rode stationary bikes. Both groups performed their exercises 3 times per week for 10 weeks. Afterwards, those participating in the neck and shoulder strength training group experienced a 70 to 80 percent reduction in their neck pain. However, those in the aerobic exercise group experienced short-term relief immediately after exercising, but their pain returned shortly after. There are many causes of neck pain, some of which are extremely serious. Thus, prior to initiating any exercise regimen, please consult with your primary health care provider, such as your local chiropractic doctor.