How to Prevent Age-Related Neck Pain After 50

Your neck, or cervical spine, comprises seven vertebrae, disks, muscles, and ligaments that support your head and allow for its movement. Over time, degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis can affect these structures, causing pain.

However, neck pain shouldn’t be an inevitable part of aging. Neck discomfort can be a nuisance and severely impact your quality of life, affecting sleep, focus, and overall well-being. 

Luckily, there are various effective treatments and preventive measures, and acupuncture has emerged as an exceptional way to alleviate this problem. 

Acupuncture Health Services, in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, is the best place to seek acupuncture treatment for your neck pain. Michael Beys, LAc, DACm, our experienced acupuncturist and herbalist, will pinpoint the root cause of your neck pain and create a tailor-made treatment plan for you based on his evaluation. 

In this article, he explains how to prevent neck pain and what you can do if it’s a persistent discomfort.

Lifestyle changes to prevent neck pain 

Many people overlook the impact of lifestyle on neck pain. Poor posture, insufficient exercise, and even stress can contribute to a sore neck. External factors like your work environment or the type of pillow you use can also play a role.

Regular exercise

You may have heard this more times than you can count, but regular exercise is crucial to prevent neck pain. Regular strength training, specifically targeting the neck and shoulder area, can significantly reduce your risk of discomfort. 

Good posture

Slouching or hunching can worsen neck pain. Maintain a neutral neck and spinal posture, especially while sitting for extended periods.

Healthy diet

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, have anti-inflammatory properties that can ease neck pain.

Weight management

Extra weight puts unnecessary stress on your neck and spine. Maintaining a healthy weight can help alleviate this burden.

How acupuncture can help with neck pain 

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting ultra-fine needles at specific points in your body to regulate the flow of “Qi,” or energy. 

Acupuncture triggers the production of endorphins, which are your body’s natural painkillers. This can immediately relieve acute episodes of neck pain.

Regular acupuncture sessions can also improve blood circulation in your neck area, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

When should you opt for acupuncture?

While age-related neck pain can be a chronic issue, there are specific signs that you should seek acupuncture treatment without delay:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t respond to rest or changes in activity
• Limited range of motion in the neck
• Frequent headaches associated with neck stiffness
• Any form of numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's advisable to consult with us.

Turning 50 doesn’t have to come with the unwelcome baggage of persistent, age-related neck pain. Acupuncture is a compelling treatment option for those seeking to manage this discomfort. It provides not only immediate relief but can also potentially improve your condition long-term.

Find relief for your neck pain by scheduling an appointment with us today.