Neck Tension

Neck tension and neck tension headache arise from constant contraction of the muscles involved.  Pain may initially be local in nature, then spread and produce headache, neck pain and shoulder pain.

The affected muscles are usually tender to touch, and often somewhere in the muscle is a particularly tender area, which when touched, mimics the patients “usual” pain exactly.  This tender area is known as the trigger zone or trigger point.

It appears that microscopic changes may take place in the trigger zone, so that fibrous materials are produced as a “replacement” to the muscle tissue.  These fibrous nodules affect local nerves and capillaries, potentially causing pain.  Pain may also be caused by release in the area of compounds such as lactic acid or kinins (a group of hormones).

The most effective treatments for tension related neck and shoulder pain involve reducing the initial muscle tension and contraction.  Myopax is particularly suited to this task, with a number of its natural compounds demonstrating muscle relaxing properties, such as the linalool in lavender and the rosmarinic acid in rosemary, both of which help to relieve neck stiffness.

Myopax also has soothing and calming properties generally.  This appears to be mainly due to the lavender content in Myopax.

Inflammation which may also worsen the associated neck pain, may also be assisted by Myopax, owing to the anti-inflammatory nature of its emu oil.

If there is substantial inflammation involved Austral-Balm may also be of benefit.

In addition to regular neck and shoulder massage with Myopax, regular breaks from the neck stressing position, improved posture and regular exercise are also important treatment steps.  Neck pain relief and treatment usually require analysis of the cause, so it is always advisable to seek a medical opinion of the condition if unsure.