What Is Upper Crossed Syndrome?
Modern conveniences have changed the way we live. Instead of physical labor, a large portion of us spends our days working at a desk in front of a computer. In addition, most of us spend a large chunk of time each day sitting with electronic devices for entertainment and amusement. Unfortunately, the human body wasn't designed for all this sitting, and it can lead to health problems.
One problem many people suffer from without even realizing it is upper crossed syndrome. Upper cross syndrome is characterized by a forward-leaning head with rounded shoulders and a rounded upper back. This can cause muscle stiffness, tension, aches, and pains in the area.
Signs and Symptoms of Upper Cross Syndrome
As upper cross syndrome advances, you may begin to experience headaches, backaches, or reduced mobility as a result. You may also experience chest pains or tightness in the chest. Sitting can become uncomfortable and you may find yourself fidgeting and repositioning yourself a lot.
This poor posture can result in problems that cascade down the rest of the body. As the body attempts to shift and compensate for the abnormal posture of the head, neck, and shoulders, it puts strain on the joints, muscles, and ligaments down the line. This can cause inflammation, swelling, pinched nerves, and chronic pain. You may experience tingling or numbness in your arms, legs, hands, or feet. Some people with this syndrome may develop temporomandibular (TMJ) and experience jaw pain.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Upper Cross Syndrome
The upper cervical spine consists of the uppermost seven vertebrae. These vertebrae begin at the base of the skull, run down the neck, and into the upper back. It is this area of the spine that is impacted by the upper cross syndrome.
The upper cervical spine is a vulnerable area prone to injury. While a car accident or sports injury can certainly cause a jolt of the neck or head and cause a misalignment of the vertebrae, it does not take a single major impact to cause a problem. The poor posture that comes with sitting for long periods with the head thrust forward is enough to do the damage.
The upper cervical spine carries the weight of the entire head. When the neck is extended forward, the pressure on the vertebrae increases and causes misalignments that result in upper crossed syndrome.
How We Treat Upper Cross Syndrome
While some exercises or even physical therapy can help relieve some symptoms of upper cross syndrome, the best way to help cure it is to correct the root of the problem. That is, the upper cervical spine needs to be corrected so that the body can proceed with the natural healing processes that come from a healthy, properly aligned spine.
Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an upper cervical spine specialist. The doctor is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic technique which utilizes a combination of modern technology and manual manipulations. The Blair technique is a safe, non-invasive, drug-free treatment for upper cross syndrome.
With the Blair technique, treatment with Dr. Elder begins with advanced 3D diagnostic imaging scans to accurately assess and calculate the measurements of your spine. Once any areas of concern are pinpointed, the doctor applies low-pressure techniques to help make corrections. The doctor will also discuss with you other health measures you can take to maintain proper alignment, loosen tight muscles, and improve your overall posture.
In a series of follow-up visits, the doctor will check that your spinal corrections are holding. When the spine is aligned, the body's natural processes begin repairing damage and healing. After treatments, Dr. Elder recommends patients return for regular chiropractic check-ups to retain their restored good health.
Don't let upper crossed syndrome get worse, causing you more pain and health problems. Call Dr. Elder for a consultation. The doctor treats patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.