How to Select Ergonomic Products to Reduce Neck Pain

Ergonomic products are designed specifically to reduce or prevent pain and discomfort in targeted areas of the body. They can be as simple as support wraps or as complex as ergonomic chairs with lumbar support. When it comes to ergonomic neck products, there is quite a range of items available, depending on your budget and the desired effect. Read on to learn how to select ergonomic products to reduce neck pain.

Instructions

• 1

  Start small by purchasing a neck collar. For occasional, slight pain caused by bad posture, it makes sense to try a soft collar. Collars are made of rubber, foam or other pliable material and should not be worn for more than one hour at a time.

• 2

  Replace some of the basic items in your home, such as your phone headset. If you spend a lot of time on the phone, select a hands-free headset that can rest on your shoulder. This will eliminate the need for you to twist your head to cradle the receiver.

• 3

  Change your pillows. Your neck pain can be aggravated by pillows that are lumpy, too flat or too fluffy, causing your body to be poorly aligned as you sleep. Ergonomic pillows are available in many department stores.

• 4

  Buy a heated massager that you can use without much difficulty. You might also purchase a heat pad or a hot-water bottle to provide warmth to your neck.

• 5

  Select a pillow made of temperature-reactive memory foam that adapts to the contour of your head. This type of pillow may help you to achieve the right posture and height, so your neck and spine are always aligned properly.

• 6

  Change your work area. Buy a monitor raiser to avoid tilting your head down to stare at your computer screen, or select an adjustable chair that allows you to control its height. Make sure your keyboard tray is at a good height, so that you don't hunch your shoulders as you type.

• 7

  Apply ice or heat to reduce neck pain. Get an ice pack for acute pain that comes and goes. Use heat for chronic discomfort.