Relief for a pinched nerve

According to the Mayo Clinic, any number of things -- accidents, overuse of muscles, bone spurs, compressed discs, stenoses, bad posture, and more -- can cause neck and shoulder pain. Continued or acute pain should take you to see the doc to avoid nerve damage.

My mother had a pinched nerve causing pain in the shoulder, but she could never figure out the cause. She went to see her doctor who put her on anti-inflammatory, over-the-counter drugs. They helped, but never got to the cause. In watching the following video by Dr. Madnell, I think I understand what caused her flare-ups.

My mother had been physically active all of her life but the past few years found her sitting for long periods of time which I think caused her head to be positioned forward. The headrest in cars, I have noticed, causes the head to position forward, and often after being in the car for an extended period of time she would have a flare-up. I think she may have had a propensity to hold her head forward anyway. She often fell asleep in a chair with her head forward. The strain on the neck over the years probably caused the overuse and inflammation that caused her pain.

She used a Maine Warmers’ Neck Warmer in the shape of a Dachshund dog which she claimed did

Dachshund Neck Warmer

the most to help her. Physicians would say to use cold therapy the first 48 to 72 hours to reduce inflammation, then use heat to stimulate circulation and improve flexibility. She would not use an ice pack. But with anti-inflammatory drugs and the heat to relax muscles in spasm, she found comfort.

Maine Warmers can be frozen and used for gentle cold therapy -- not harsh like ice cubes. Check out their Facebook page for more information, specials, and giveaways.

Moderation and Living Well

At the Portland, Maine Farmers' Market last Saturday I overheard one farmer say to another, "I have learned that moderation is key to living well." He paused then said, "But I don't like to live that way." When I laughed out loud, he turned and grinned and explained how he liked to eat and drink more than he probably should.

I think we can all relate. In summer, we travel, eat out more, have house guests and leftovers when the visitors are gone, and go out for ice-cream. It all adds up to extra pounds and maybe feeling a bit bloated or uncomfortable. 

The good news is that farmers' markets flourish with healthy veggies and fruits this time of

year, encouraging us to get back on track -- at least until the holidays. 

Remember to use a Maine Warmer to help you relax instead of reaching for some goodies to make you feel better.