At the end of the day, do you feel like you have knots all over your upper back and shoulders? Do you have aches and pains all over your body? Hair stylists often don’t get recognized for how physically demanding their job can be. From being constantly on your feet, looking down at your client’s head, holding blow dryers, washing hair and listening to other people’s problems all day, your neck and upper back can take the brunt of your day.
How can Physical Therapy help?
Our expertise also allows us to assess and treat your specific impairments. In the clinic, we can perform manual therapy techniques to increase joint mobility and release muscles as indicated. We can also help you manage your pain independently. From stretches to perform while you are working, we can also tailor a home exercise program for you to follow to prevent pain from reoccurring.
Another method is changing your work environment to be more ergonomically efficient. This website has some great suggestions: http://www.ergonomicssimplified.com/professions/hairdresser.
Yes, we do see you doing that wall squat behind the sink!
A few exercises you can start doing now in between clients are:
Upper Trap Stretch:
Slowly tilt your head to the left side, keeping your nose pointing forward. Tuck your right hand behind your back. Use your left arm to provide gentle overpressure – you should feel a stretch on the right side of your neck but no pain! Hold for 30 seconds – 1 minute. Repeat on the opposite side.
Lev Scap Stretch:
Start with right hand behind your back as in the previous exercise. Look down towards your left arm pit. Use your left hand to apply gentle pressure. You should feel a stretch closer to the back of your neck on the right side. Hold for 30 seconds – 1 minute. Repeat on the opposite side
Doorway Stretch:
Put arms up on either side of the doorframe at 90º, resting hands, forearms and elbows on the wall. Take one step forward with either foot and lean slightly forward. You should feel this stretch in the front of you shoulders and it should feel AMAZING! Hold for 30 seconds – 1 minute.
If these exercises make you feel better, think of how much more we can do for you! You help people all day, let us help you feel better! Call (780) 395-9170 to book an appointment with a Physical Therapist. We also have Massage Therapists and an acupuncturist on staff as well!
Resolve to Move Better. Resolve to Perform Better. Resolve to Live Better.
