What Is Upper Crossed Syndrome?
Upper crossed syndrome is a problem reaching epidemic proportions these days, and the shocking truth is that most people who have it don't even realize it. Even many children and teens now suffer from upper crossed syndrome, and without early intervention, it can lead to a lifetime of chronic pain and health problems.
The condition is characterized by a forward-leaning head and rounded upper back. The condition is becoming more and more prevalent due to postural problems that come from the use of hand-held electronic devices.
Signs and Symptoms of Upper Crossed Syndrome
Upper crossed syndrome is a noticeable condition. When you look at a person's full-body profile, the head should be up straight, the shoulders should be back, and there should be gentle concave curves of the neck and mid-back.
When you look at someone with upper crossed syndrome, the head will be leaning forward with the neck at a forward angle. The natural concave curve of the neck is reduced, may be absent, or may be reversed into a c-curve. The upper back and shoulders are rounded in a c-curve as well.
This posture puts strain on the joints, muscles, and ligaments. It causes tension, stiffness, and pain. Upper crossed syndrome can cause chronic pain, reduce mobility and flexibility, and over time may lead to health issues such as disc degeneration and arthritis.
How to Improve or Prevent Upper Crossed Syndrome
Upper crossed syndrome can be helped if you pay more attention to your posture. Make sure you're standing or sitting up straight, especially when using electronics. Ergonomic chairs and computer set-ups can help you accomplish this.
Take frequent breaks when using hand-held devices, or hold them up so that you don't need to look down at them and can keep your head straight when using them.
Physical activity can also help improve or prevent upper crossed syndrome. Stretching can help loosen muscles and release tension in your posture. Running, swimming, or going to the gym can help strenthen the muscles to keep proper posture.
Many people find quick relief from upper crossed syndrome by getting upper cervical care.
How We Treat Upper Crossed Syndrome
Our upper cervical specialist at Upper Cervical Knoxville is Dr. Bejian Shamloo. The doctor offers non-invasive, drug-free, safe, effective treatments for the upper cervical spine to help correct upper crossed syndrome and keep it from returning in the future.
Dr. Shamloo utilizes modern technology to ensure you're getting the best screening possible. With cutting-edge 3D diagnostic imaging tools, the doctor can get the most accurate calculations for your unique posture to treat any misalignments of the upper cervical spine. This allows him to apply corrections with more precision, making your visit more comfortable and your adjustment hold longer.
Once your spine is adjusted correctly, you will notice an immediate improvement in your posture and relief from your pain. This is only the beginning, however; the body has natural healing processes that kick in when the spine is corrected and will continue repairing damage and restoring health. Regular chiropractic visits can ensure your spine remains in a healthy alignment, nipping any problems in the bud before they grow and cause you pain or health issues.
Contact Dr. Shamloo if you think you are suffering from upper crossed syndrome. Dr. Shamloo provides upper cervical chiropractic treatment for patients 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.