What is Upper Cross Syndrome?
The muscles in the human body are all part of a biomechanical chain that links together.
Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a condition of postural abnormalities and muscular and joint dysfunction of the upper body, neck, and shoulders. It can occur when one group of muscles becomes weak, and another group overworks to compensate.
Muscle imbalances and postural dysfunction of the neck, shoulder girdle and mid-back.
This article discussed causes, symptoms and treatment for Upper Cross Syndrome. We also discuss how chiropractic may assist with the symptoms of UCS.
Causes of Upper Cross Syndrome
The majority of upper cross syndrome instances are caused by improper posture. Long periods of standing or sitting with the head pushed forwards.
Long periods of sitting at a computer, watching TV, or talking on the phone contribute to poor posture by weakening the neck flexor muscles and tightening and shortening the pectoral and upper trapezius muscles, forcing the spine forwards.
The upper cross syndrome can develop due to congenital disabilities or injuries in a small percentage of people.
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Symptoms of Upper Cross Syndrome
The Upper Cross Syndrome-related muscular imbalances place tension on the surrounding muscles, tendons, bones, and joints, causing most people to suffer symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Pain at the back of the neck or neck strain
- Pain and tightness in the chest
- Upper back pain, particularly in the shoulders
- Difficulty sitting, reading, watching TV, or driving for long periods.
- Neck or shoulder range of motion restriction
- Upper arm numbness, tingling, and discomfort
Treatment For Upper Cross Syndrome
Exercises and Stretches
Chin Tuck
This is one of the most effective posture exercises for strengthening the muscles that pull the head back into normal alignment. It considerably relieves neck pain.
- Get down on your hands and knees, keeping your back straight and your head in line with your spine. Extend your chin towards the ground.
- Scoop chin down as far as possible towards the chest. Return to the beginning posture while keeping the chin close to the body.
Shoulder Blade Squeeze
It will help you improve the chest muscles and improve overall posture.
Begin by sitting in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Shift your weight forwards slightly to avoid rounding your back. Relax.
- Raise your arms to shoulder height, and elbows bent, palms forwards, ears, shoulders, and hips aligned.
- Squeeze your shoulder blades together as you move your arms back.
- Hold the position for 10 seconds. Return to the starting point.
- Rep 5 times more.
Trapezius Stretch
Trapezius stretching prevents Trapezius muscles from being overly tense.
- Begin by standing with one hand on your lower back and the other on the opposite side of your head.
- Pull your head towards your shoulder while staring straight ahead until your neck stretches.
- Hold for at least 25 seconds before repeating on the opposite side.
Chiropractic care
If DIY corrective exercise and stretching aren’t working and the discomfort becomes excruciating, seek professional care immediately. Contact New You Chiropractic.
Tight muscles and poor posture, which produce UCS, can cause joint misalignment.
Chiropractic care focuses on spinal manipulation for pain relief and improved movement.
Realigning the joints can help increase the range of motion in the afflicted area. It also stretches and relaxes shortened muscles.
Can New You Chiropractic Help?
If you want more information on how chiropractic may help with the upper cross syndrome, call us on 1300 063 996.
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For more information call today on 1300 063 996 or book online.
