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Neck Exercises: Active Neck Rotation

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Woman lying on back doing active neck rotation exercise.

To start, lie on your back, knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned, but don’t press your lower back to the floor. Rest your hands on your pelvis. Breathe deeply and relax.

Here are the steps for active neck rotation:

  • Use your neck muscles to turn your head to one side until you feel a stretch in the muscles.

  • Hold for  5 seconds. Then turn to the other side.

  • Repeat  5 times on each side.

Note: Keep your shoulders on the floor. Don’t lift or tuck your chin as you turn your head.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Date Last Reviewed: 12/01/2022

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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