Neck pain and headaches are usually a result of poor posture and muscle imbalances and unfortunately there is no single exercise or machine that can improve this. Poor posture is often the result of using the same muscles repetitively. For instance, think of how many times you are required to lift your arms towards the front of your body. When you get up in the morning, you wash your hair, eat breakfast, clean the dishes and brush your teeth, performing the same motion a number of times before your day even begins. When you do these movements throughout the day, you work the same muscles while others are neglected. Similarly, if you spend a lot of your day driving, on the telephone, or sitting at a desk it is easy for your muscles to tighten up because you are constantly in the same position. The solution is to perform a balanced stretching and strengthening routine including stretches for the rhomboids, upper and mid back and neck muscles with concentration on strengthening the shoulders and back muscles. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program.

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.