Treatment

Neck Exercises: Head Lifts

Choose a preferred language

Do this exercise on your hands and knees. Keep your knees under your hips and your hands under your shoulders. Keep your spine in a neutral position (not arched or sagging). Keep your ears in line with your shoulders. Hold for a few seconds before starting the exercise:

  • Keeping your back straight, slowly drop your chin toward your chest. Tuck in your chin.

  • Hold for  5 seconds. Then lift your head until your neck is level with your back.

  • Hold for  5 seconds. Repeat  5 to10 times.

Woman on all fours doing neck lift exercise.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 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.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

1-800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

1-800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

1-800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Exercise Program for Peroneal Tendonitis

Follow this exercise program to help treat your peroneal tendonitis.

Read article
Orthopedics
Exercise Program for Hip Arthritis

Follow this exercise program to help decrease pain and improve function in your hips.

Read article
Orthopedics
Knee Ligament Repair or Reconstruction

Ligaments surround a joint to give it support and limit its movement. A torn ligament severely limits knee movement. Surgery is a choice to repair a torn ligament if other treatment does not work.

Read article
Orthopedics
Exercise Program for Rotator Cuff Injury

Follow this exercise program to help treat your rotator cuff injury.