Essential Stretches for Morning Neck and Shoulder Pain
Neck and shoulder pain is a common complaint, especially upon waking. It can be caused by poor sleep posture, an inadequate mattress, or sleep disturbances.
According to physical therapist Susan Winograd, “Movement helps keep our joints lubricated and our muscles flexible. If you wake up with pain, move. Movement is the best medicine.”
If you’re unsure where to start, try these stretches to relieve morning neck and shoulder stiffness:
- Neck rotations: Sit up straight and slowly turn your head in a circular motion. Do 5-10 slow rotations in each direction. This movement helps gently mobilize the neck and improve its flexibility.
- Arm circles: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms extended out to the sides. Rotate your arms, gradually increasing the size of the circles. Repeat 10 times in each direction. This exercise aims to warm up the shoulders and improve blood circulation.
- Cat-cow pose: Get on your hands and knees, inhale, and arch your back like a cat. This position helps to relax the spine, shoulders, and neck.
