Upper Cross Syndrome
What is Upper Cross Syndrome
What Causes Upper Cross Syndrome
People that spend long hours sitting are most at risk. Those that are office workers, watch long hours of TV or can’t stop looking at your phone are most at risk of creating further muscle imbalance. The imbalance causes rotation of the shoulders and pulls the spine forward increasing the strain on the upper back, shoulders and neck.
Common complaints associated with Upper Cross Syndrome: Neck and Upper Back Pain, Headaches, and TMJ Dysfunction.
What To Avoid
Avoid a Sedentary Lifestyle: The more we sit the more we increase muscle strain and imbalance that leads to Upper Cross Syndrome.
Many of us sit for our jobs, planning to get up and move or change positions every 30 minutes can help. Make sure to get a proper ergonomic assessment and/or a stand up desk to reduce strain on your body.
Correction of this problem is accomplished by stretching the tight muscles, strengthening weak muscles, and modifying your workstation.
How We Can Help
Chiropractic Manipulation
Active Release Therapy
Upper Cross Syndrome results in a series of tight and overworked muscles involving the upper trapezius and pectoral muscles. Active Release Therapy will release the muscle tightness and soft-tissue adhesion. This release will improve circulation, relieve pain and restore flexibility to the surrounding tissue.
Therapeutic Exercises
Upper Cross Syndrome results in weakness of the lower traps and deep neck flexors. Stretches are used to restore flexibility of the shoulders and upper back and posterior neck. Exercises will be used to encourage natural positioning of the neck over the shoulders. A combination of regular stretches and exercises will reduce recurrence.
