Relieve Upper Back Pain with these Four Easy Stretches!

Last week we discussed stretches for the lower back, and this week we will be focusing on the upper back.

If you spend many hours in front of the computer each day, your back and neck muscles can tighten up and cause intense discomfort.

Upper back pain or tension could also lead to neck pain and headaches. To relieve upper back tension, try these 4 Simple Stretches we have provided for you below.

1. The Arm Stretch: This stretch can be done while sitting or standing. Place your right hand on your left elbow and pull it towards your right shoulder. Do not rotate your entire body while doing so. Hold for 12 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Repeat this stretch 10 times.
2. Side Bend: While sitting down and your back in an upright position, bend your elbows and place your hands on the back of your head. Bend and stretch to the side, with your elbows going towards the ground. Stretch as far as you can without experience strain or pain. Hold for 8 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
3. Shoulder Roll: While standing straight up with your arms relaxed to your sides, begin to lift your shoulders and then move them back in a rolling motion. Continue rolling your shoulders 12 times. Come back to starting position and roll your shoulders forward.. Remember to do this slowly and with control. Repeat this 12 times.
4. Shoulder Blade Squeezes: This stretch can be done while sitting or standing. While keeping your back in an upright position, squeeze your shoulder blades together as far as possible. Hold for 8 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Adding these stretches into your routine will help to relieve upper back and neck tension and improve your posture.

Click here for 4 Lower Back Stretches to relieve back pain!

Do you have any upper back stretches to add to the list?