What is Military Neck?
Military neck, also known as cervical kyphosis, is the unofficial name for a postural condition characterized by abnormal curvature along the upper cervical spine. Because of how the upper cervical spine affects neck position, people suffering from military neck tend to adopt a ‘standing at attention’ posture, even when in a relaxed stance.
Military Neck Signs and Symptoms
Military neck occurs when the neck is abnormally straight. This can lead to stiffness, decreased range of motion, muscle weakness, more frequent headaches, pain in the neck and extremities, coordination issues, and concentration difficulties. In extreme cases, military neck has been linked to more serious spinal deformity symptoms, including paralysis and impaired bladder and/or bowel control.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Military Neck
The upper cervical spine affects neck position. Any misalignment in the upper cervical spine can cause a change in neck position. When the upper cervical spine is misaligned, the lower cervical spine tends to compensate for the misalignment. This is because of the way the bones and joints are connected. In a healthy spine, the atlas vertebra is slightly inclined forward. This inclination is called a ‘positive atlas inclination.’
The atlas vertebra is located at the base of the skull and controls how the head sits on top of the upper cervical spine. When a patient is suffering from military neck, cervical vertebrae like the atlas vertebra are flattened or tilted backward, disrupting the spine’s natural 'C' curve and forcing the neck into an abnormally straight position.
How Our Treatment for Military Neck Works
Our treatment for military neck works by realigning the upper cervical spine. Once the upper cervical spine is realigned, the lower cervical spine will realign itself back to its normal position. Please note, to prevent military neck from returning, you’ll probably need to change your postural habits and adopt a more stable resting head position.
At the beginning of your treatment program, our expert chiropractor, Dr. Shamloo, will use a range of advanced scanning techniques, including advanced 3D imaging and infrared thermography, to record the precise angle and location of any upper cervical misalignments. Using this information, Dr. Shamloo will then correct any affected vertebra, realigning the spinal column and restoring the neck to a healthy, natural position.
If military neck is getting in the way of your day-to-day life, contact Upper Spine Knoxville for an appointment. Dr. Shamloo provides patients with upper cervical chiropractic treatments in Knoxville, Alcoa, Maryville, Farragut, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Karns, Hardin Valley, Powell, Halls, and Fountain City in Tennessee, as well as the surrounding areas.