Stretching with one device | What is the best way to stretch the cervical spine?

Stretching with one device

Those who have the necessary equipment at home or the physiotherapy practice is equipped accordingly, can also stretch the cervical spine with the help of devices. One of these devices is the so-called extension device, which helps to stretch and relieve the cervical spine. Another aid are TENS devices (TENS = Transcutaneous, Electrical, Nerve Centering, Stimulating).

These are stimulation current devices in which voltage is transferred to the skin by means of electrodes to stimulate and relax the underlying muscles. Depending on your wishes, you can work with low or high frequency. In the treatment of pain, it is assumed that the electrical stimulus overlays the pain after some time and thus switches it off.

Stretching after a slipped disc of the cervical spine

Especially after certain injuries such as a herniated disc, it is important to stay in motion. Once the patient is largely pain-free again and the rest phase is over (approx. after 6 weeks), the strengthening of the muscles of the cervical spine can begin.

There are a number of exercises that patients can perform at home to give the cervical spine new strength and mobility. Basically, each patient has to test for himself which exercise or sport feels good and the intensity of the training should be adapted to his personal fitness level.Sports such as swimming (only crawl and back), Nordic walking, cross-country skiing, Pilates or yoga can be practiced in a supportive manner to protect against further slipped discs in the long term. The patient should especially pay attention to a correct posture so that the cervical spine is not unnecessarily or incorrectly loaded.

Stretching in a cervical spine syndrome

Movement (stretching and mobilization exercises) and strengthening exercises are also essential in the cervical spine syndrome (cervical spine syndrome), which is also known in the vernacular as neck-shoulder-neck syndrome. A straight posture, the avoidance of abrupt movements as well as drafts and constant strain are just as much a part of this as regular strengthening and stretching exercises to loosen, relieve and stabilize the overstressed area around the cervical spine. You can find exercises for this in the articles: Through physiotherapy, movement training, fascial training and massage, the patient can be helped preventively in order to enable a symptom-free everyday life.

Autogenic training, progressive muscle relaxation or relaxation sports such as yoga or Pilates can also help to alleviate the symptoms. Which type of relaxation technique is most effective depends on the individual and the symptoms. You can find more general information about the cervical spine syndrome here: Headaches caused by a HWS syndrome

  • Exercises cervical spine syndrome
  • Exercises against shoulder and neck pain
  • Physiotherapy for a cervical spine syndrome