Neck Pain Relief with Nerve Flossing

When I first started dentistry 10 years ago, I started getting neck pain.

During the busy time, November/December I would get a stiff neck and during pregnancy I would get numbness in my hands. I had to see someone every 3-4 weeks to help me.

This is when I learnt about nerve flossing. This is a game changer! As a dentist we have very repetitive positions and we hold our heads and hands in the same positions for long periods of time. The muscles, nerves, and fascia all need to be stretched every day, which can help improve nerve function, relieve pain, and improve mobility.

You may also be surprised to know that there are actually similarities between dental flossing and the “flossing” we do for our nerves.

We know that dental floss consists of a long, thin string, which is passed between adjacent teeth in order to remove bacteria and other debris. While the nerves radiating from our spine do not remove bacteria or other debris in the body, but they do resemble long, thin strings that glide between muscles and bones.

They are also designed with flexible properties that allow them (in normal circumstances), to move freely when a person engages in activity. By practicing nerve flossing, you can gradually increase the free-flowing movement of nerves that have become affected.

As the nerves are able to function properly again, you'll often see pain levels decrease, as well as a decrease in possible other symptoms like numbness, tingling, and burning.

Nerve flossing is great for relieving nerve tension and tightness in a variety of common diagnoses, including sciatica, herniated disc, and carpal tunnel syndrome. I’m not the expert in this area, but I have learnt so much from my fellow fascia therapist, physio therapist, osteopath and chiropractor. These people are the pros!

I'll be posting a video on my feed in the upcoming days, where I attempt to get into a zen-like state and engage in my nerve flossing and fascia stretching at home - only to get interrupted by life 😂