Stretching Exercises for Stiff Neck

I am a hair dresser and suffer with massive tension in my neck. I started with stress in my back but over the years it has moved to my neck. I have just started treatment with a massage therapist and she feels some regular stretching exercises will help.
Can you advise me more? Many thanks.

Matthew's reply: Hi, yes a combination of massage and neck stretching exercises may help you. Take a look in the Back-Neck section of this site (if you haven't already), pick 1 or 2 exercises that you feel would be most suitable and go from there. Always do the exercises slowly, smoothly and gently. Never force an exercise or you risk injuring yourself further.

I would suggest, though, that as your neck and back problems are long term, the Stiff Neck Program will be more useful. The program contains a selection of highly effective self-massage and stretching techniques for stiff neck, shoulders and upper back. Included in the program is lifestyle advice to enhance the techniques.

In addition to the Stiff Neck Program the Long Life Exercise Program will help you reduce stress, increase energy and much more.

If you have any questions about either of the programs or any of the exercises on this site just post them below.

All the best,

Matthew