Last Update: 13 January 2023
Motorcycle riders love to have their faces in the wind and those enjoying a full day ride literally face hours of constant wind buffeting against a helmet weighted head. Even those with windscreens or large wind shields can feel the wind’s pushing pressure against their back. This can cause neck and back pain even on a short ride. It’s common to feel pain across the shoulder area as well. It’s not easy to find professional treatment along your way, but you can reap the benefits of rider self massage and relieve everyday riding aches and tension with these easy moves!
Massage equipment is nice but really all you need are your own hands to help release the pain in your neck, shoulders and even back. Just remember though, never to put direct pressure on your spine.
Try these three self massage techniques to beat neck and shoulder pain.
Soothe: Back of the neck pain
Take two or three t-shirts or hotel towels and twist into a thick braid-like shape. Stretch these and place them behind your neck, holding one end in each hand. Slowly rub the twisted band up and down your neck to release tension.
Soothe: Side of the neck pain
Grasp the back of your neck with one hand placing the heel of your hand into the space just behind your ear at the base of your skull and your fingers wrapped around the opposite side of your neck. Squeeze, applying pressure with the heel of your hand only (using fingers just for leverage). Work your way down your neck to where it meets your shoulder. Repeat several times. End with some gentle neck stretches, tilting and rotating your head from side to side.
Soothe: Shoulder pain
Hook the fingers of your left hand over your left shoulder. Your upper trapezium muscle will be beneath the palm of your hand. Give it several good squeezes. You can also roll or rake your fingers over the muscle, working from the outside in towards the base of your neck. Repeat on the right shoulder with the right hand.
Sleep well and ride revived tomorrow!