What Is Upper Crossed Syndrome?
Upper Crossed Syndrome is a growing problem for many people, and sadly many people don’t even realize that they have it. The condition is characterized by a forward-leaning head, rounded shoulders, and a rounded upper back. It is due to a muscle imbalance that causes a weakening and lengthening of the muscles of the neck and upper back.
Upper Crossed Syndrome is largely the result of modern technology. Many people spend the majority of the day using computers or hand-held electronic devices. Often people spend the day working on electronic devices, then go home and use the same devices for entertainment or to communicate with friends and family. The unnatural posture that involves leaning forward and looking down while operating a device is what directly causes upper crossed syndrome.
If not treated, upper crossed syndrome can cause discomfort and may lead to additional health problems.
Signs and Symptoms of Upper Crossed Syndrome
The most common symptoms of upper cross syndrome include neck aches, backaches, sore neck and shoulders, and headaches. In time, the condition may lead to reduced mobility, chest pains, or a tightness in the chest.
As upper crossed syndrome advances, it can be increasingly difficult to become comfortable. You may find that you fidget more in your chair and have to reposition yourself frequently.
The weight of the head puts pressure on the neck and shoulders, and this pressure increases exponentially the farther the neck is extended forward and held in a downward position. This postural problem causes the body to adjust in order to compensate for the weight of the head. That adjustment may cause undue pressure on other joints, muscles, and ligaments. In time, these postural problems can lead to more back pain, migraines, pinched nerves, and other forms of chronic pain.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Upper Crossed Syndrome
Upper Crossed Syndrome is mainly due to a misalignment of the upper cervical spine. The abnormal posture of leaning forward and looking down can cause one of the seven neck vertebrae to be knocked out of alignment. Misalignments of this vulnerable area can also be caused by any impact or injury to the head and/or neck.
You can attempt to improve your posture by changing your habits. You may get an ergonomic chair, remind yourself to sit up straight, take more breaks, or hold devices up so that you can look at them without having to extend your neck or bow your head. You can also try to make improvements by engaging in more physical activity or help manage pain with over-the-counter pain relief medications and heating pads. However, once there is a misalignment of the upper cervical spine, the underlying problem will continue to cause pain and health issues until it is corrected.
How We Treat Upper Crossed Syndrome
Here at Los Angeles Upper Cervical, we get straight to the root of conditions like upper crossed syndrome. Rather than just treating the symptoms, we can correct the problem with safe, non-invasive, drug-free treatments.
Dr. Alex Bello is our upper cervical specialist. He is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern method of chiropractic care that’s more gentle, precise, and effective than traditional methods. The Blair technique utilizes advanced 3D imaging diagnostic technology so that the doctor can get a more informed picture of your unique anatomy and pinpoint any problems. This allows him to make corrections using low-force pressure. Because of the precision, the Blair technique allows, corrections usually hold longer and require fewer visits.
Once corrections are made and the spine is properly aligned, patients usually report some immediate relief. This is just the beginning, as proper alignment allows the body’s natural healing properties to take over, repairing damage and restoring health.
If you think you suffer from upper crossed syndrome, contact Dr. Bello for a consultation. He offers upper cervical chiropractic care to patients in Brentwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.