Hi. Dr. Chris Tomshack with another HealthSource tip for your aching neck—and in a minute, we’ll also talk about, “What everyone wants to know about neck pain, but is afraid to ask.”
 Today’s strategy is so simple, it’s ridiculous—and it’s especially important since there’s no “one-size-fits-all” for neck pain relief.
 That’s another reason I’m giving you more than one tip—because our bodies are so complex, it usually takes more than one thing to get you better and KEEP you in great shape. So don’t be discouraged if you’re not perfect after trying the ice and the Neck-Towel-Trick from the last 2 letters.
 Besides, if “one thing” would fix you, if just “a crack” at the chiropractor would always correct the problem… if doing a stretch would bring instant relief…or if taking a Pilates class would make everyone shout for joy…that would be great! But in real life, it doesn’t work that way.
 Your back is way too complex. That’s why it’s especially dangerous to cover up the pain with ibuprofen, aspirin and Tylenol—you’re not taking care of WHY this marvelous machine of yours is having problems.
 Anyway, here’s another simple but amazing little trick to help your TRAPEZIUS muscle, which starts in your mid back, hooks onto your spine and connects all the way up on your shoulders, neck and skull.
 First, find an ordinary TENNIS BALL. It doesn’t have to be new—but it should still have a little bounce. The one the dog chewed to a pulp may NOT do the trick.
 Now lie on your back on the floor—preferably on a carpet.
 Take the ball and place it under your upper back—right between your shoulder blade and your spine.
 Now gradually lower some of your weight onto the ball so it’s a little uncomfortable—but NOT killing you.
 And wait. Let the ball slowly push into those tight muscles—because if your neck is sore, it’s almost certain your trapezius is tight, too—and this may be the cause of your neck pain in the first place.
 Give it about 10 seconds—and do it for 5 or 6 sore spots you find nearby. One size does NOT fit all, so you have to check around a bit to find where you’re sore. Then do the other side. And see how you feel when you get up and move around. The interaction between your muscles and the spine is CRITICALLY important and without dealing with both spine and muscles, you just don’t get better and stay that way.
 Do this today, then skip a day and do it again on the 3rd day. If you’re not feeling better, call us!
 And finally, to answer, “What everyone wants to know about back pain but is afraid to ask.” The questions are: #1: “Do I need surgery?” and #2: “Why do I hurt so bad? I didn’t DO anything?”
 More about these questions next time and also about: “The Trapezius—Master Neck Muscle.”
See you then. Dr. Chris Tomshack for HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive RehabTM
 P.S. If the pain just isn’t getting better, click this link: xxxxxxx to take advantage of our Limited-Time, 17-Point, Complimentary Community Service Screening.
 P.P.S Remember, the reason we check out so many things at our complimentary Community Service Screening—the balance between muscles, joints, spine, range of motion, ligaments, nerves—because we don’t want you to get “half-fixed”.