Do You Suffer From Upper Cross Syndrome?
By: Sherwin Rojas, Holistic Massage Therapist
Upper crossed syndrome occurs when the muscles in the neck and shoulders (upper trapezius and levator scapula) become overactive, and the chest muscles (pectoralis major and sternocleidomastoid) become shortened and tight. Most cases of upper cross syndrome arise because of the following: continual poor posture, standing or sitting for long periods with the head pushed forward, texting, sitting at a computer, reading, and driving.
Those with upper crossed syndrome usually have the same or similar set of postural irregularities that people may describe as slouching.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF UPPER CROSS SYNDROME
• neck pain
• headache
• weakness in the front of the neck
• strain in the back of the neck
• pain in the upper back and shoulders
• tightness and pain in the chest
• fatigue
• restricted movement in the neck and shoulders
• lower back pain (from prolonged sitting)
• trouble with sitting to read or watching TV
• trouble driving for long periods
Upper cross syndrome is a chronic condition that can cause significant muscle imbalance in the body and lead to chronic back pain. The effects of this condition can harm athlete performance and reduce range of motion. If not treated, the condition can cause eventual damage to the spine from continual pressure on the front of the vertebrae. This can lead to Dowager's Hump, also known as hyperkyphosis or kyphosis, which is an excessive curvature of the spine.
TREATMENT FOR UPPER CROSS SYNDROME
Chiropractic Care
Aims to realign the spine which helps balance muscle strain, tightness, weakness, and helps to improve posture by relieving pain.
Soft tissue work and a variety of techniques to release the tight and overactive muscles, and then stimulate the weak and under active muscles.
Physical Therapy
Relieves the symptoms of pain but can also eliminate the underlying causes of the pain.
Exercise/Stretches
Stretches can help loosen the tight muscles in your neck and upper back.
Upper crossed syndrome is usually a preventable condition. Practicing proper posture is vital in both preventing and treating this condition. Be aware of your posture and correct it if you notice you are in the wrong position. Your providers of Massage, Chiropractic Care or Physical Therapy should be able to support you with the appropriate stretches / exercise you can do in tandem with your treatments.
If you are experiencing pain and a limited range of motion associated with Upper Cross Syndrome, don’t wait to get treated as this condition will only worsen over time. Effective stretching techniques and supportive care such as chiropractic treatment, massage, physical therapy, exercise, and stretches can quickly and safely resolve the source of this pain as well as provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge to remain pain free. Book your massage at Saffron & Sage today to increase your range of motion and alleviate any pain you may be experiencing due to upper cross syndrome.
