Massage points for neck pain

A pain in the neck is one of the most uncomfortable conditions.  It often occurs when we are sleeping in a poor position for long periods of time leading to tightness and stiffness in the neck muscles.  However any condition that causes the muscles to tighten can lead to pain.

When the neck muscles strain and tighten the cervical vertebrae can become compressed or twisted, which can aggravate its nerve roots.  This can case radiating pain that travels to the upper back, down the arm or up into the head. (see center line and spine)

The neck and shoulders are a functional unit that share the same musculature. Thus tension in the shoulders is directly related the tension and pain in the neck. Massage is a very effective way of reducing the tightness in the neck muscles and relieving the pain.

Below is a list of massage points that are effective for releasing neck and shoulder tension.  Though this is not an extensive chart these are areas that are commonly affected in neck tightness and pain.  You may be able to reach around your shoulder and perform self massage with your fingers or a tennis ball. However, if you are having severe neck pain you should seek the help of a professional. (see low back massage points for more details on self massage)

These regions relate to acupuncture points.  If you are interested in a more detailed description of acupuncture you should seek a good reference book.

A)Are points along the upper trapezius muscle.  This maybe the most common area for muscle strain.  The lower point can release pain from the shoulder to the head.  Ti relates to the point GB 21.  (this is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy. (Though massage may not have the same effect its worth taking note of).  The upper point is the upper attachment that focuses on releasing tension from the base of the neck.  It relates to the acupuncture point Ub10.

B)Releases tension in the splenius capitis (part of the erector muscles). This is another very common region for soreness and aches.  The upper point relates to Gb 20 in acupuncture and the lower point relates to Ub 11 and Du 14.

C)These are points along the Levater Scapula.  Often quite tender to the touch these points can release tension from the upper shoulder to the neck.  It relates to the acupuncture points Si 14 and 15.

D)Are all points along the sides of the neck.  They are deep muscles that when stiff greatly affect the movement of the neck.  It includes the scalenes muscle a deep muscle that connects to the sides of the cervical vertebrae. And the splenius cervicis.  The upper point relates to the acupuncture point Tb 16 and the lower region relates to Si 16.

E)are points along the Sternocleidomastoid.  The upper region relates to the acupuncture point Te 17.  The lower attachment relates to the acupuncture points Li 17 – 18 and St 9 – 10.

F)is a point on the Masseter muscle.  This can be used to releasing tension in the jaw and upper neck.  It relates to the point St 6.

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Related posts:

1. Massage Points for lower back
2. Massage points for shoulder pain
3. Massage Points for Knee Pain
4. Massage Points for ankle strain and pain
5. Massage Points for Elbow Pain

Dec 28, 2009

• Posted by Matthew
• 3 comments
• Health, Qigong Physiology
• Qigong Tips, Therapy

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