I went to see a chiropractor and he did x-rays and all that and stated the obvious. I have shortened tendons in my neck and shoulders from having my shoulders up around my ears all the time. He recommended that I see him three times a week for a month. Which would be fine if my insurance covered it, but sadly I have a co-pay of $35.00 a visit. Which means that month would cost me approximately $420.00. Well, I don't have $420.00 right now so that's off the table. Massage comes with the same problems. Massages around here are about $70 an hour.
Though both these things would be helpful, it seems like I am not in a financial position to pursue either one at this time. Which leaves me with home care. I have been putting heat on my shoulders off and on during the day and trying to do some gentle stretches. I'm not sure if it's helping but at least the problem isn't getting worse.
When I'm riding, I'm trying to relax my shoulders more but to be honest I'm not really sure how. I think I'm probably pulling them back with as much tension as I was hunching them to my ears. I'm hoping to pick up some books on rider fitness for Christmas (my library doesn't have any. Lame.) but in the meantime do you stretch before you ride? Any stretches for necks and shoulders? I'm hoping that as my fear decreases, my shoulders will resume their normal position at the base of my neck instead of crowded up around it. Also, if it doesn't work out with the Princess I'm going to buy one of these instead. Haha!
Some I learned from P90X:
ReplyDelete-Arm circles (small, with your palms facing out, then large with your fingers pointed down)
-In horse stance, put your arms out to the side, palm side up and move them behind you (almost like you're trying to get them to touch)
There a few other good ones but it is difficult to put them into words. I didn't ride last night, but did my X-Stretch DVD and wow did I feel great afterward! If you have the money and time, P90X is a great workout.