Remember a few weeks ago, when I blogged about my neck issues?
Maybe this lovely X-ray will refresh your memory.
The comments on that post left me feeling hopeful. It seems that losing spinal curvature is much more common than I realized. And I was comforted to hear that several readers had had successful treatment and were finally pain free.
My straight neck has probably been the cause of the non-stop neck pain I’ve experienced for the past few years, so I was very anxious to begin treating the problem. Since I’m trying to avoid pain medication and muscle relaxers, I’ve been trying all sorts of procedures recommended by my Chinese Medicine doctor. My holistic treatment plan has included:
- acupuncture
- cupping
- applied heat to the area
- Tiger balm
- massage therapy
- posture correction
- neck stretches
- switching to a cervical neck pillow
- chiropractic adjustments
I honestly have noticed a slight improvement—my neck pain is less intense and I think my posture is improving. This is all before actually doing anything to correct the actual loss of curvature. Some readers said they went through a series of treatments with a chiropractor over several weeks, but I decided to try a less costly option recommended by my Chinese Medicine doctor and chiropractor. I invested in a Posture Pump and it came in the mail last week!
Besides looking like a total torture contraption and making me look like a lunatic in restraints, this thing makes my neck feel damn good. I do have to ease into using my Posture Pump so I don’t send my neck muscles into spasm, but I have hope that I’m finally on the path to a pain-free neck!
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{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow, that contraption is really funny looking! I’m really glad it’s helping, though.
Isn’t it though?! I feel like Hannibal Lecter. 😉
Yikes! That looks intense.
It looks intense, but actually feels very good.
How does it work? Do you pump it up?
There is a little tube thing that is right under my neck and once I’m all strapped in correctly, I fill the tube with air to push the curve back into my neck. It obviously takes time and I have to do it gradually, but it feels really good.
Hmmm, I might need that! I have tons of tension in my neck and shoulders and just woke up with neck pain/spasms for the first time ever a couple weeks ago. Scary! I went to a chiropractor for treatment and it’s better, but I fear it will happen again eventually.
I’m sorry to hear about your neck issues–that is no fun. I really like the posture pump so far. It’s expensive, but I’ll have it forever. You should talk to Kristien if you’re interested.