Upper Cross Syndrome

by Jul 22, 2019

Upper Cross Syndrome is the most common postural fault and it causes a lot of symptoms. Most people sit too much (at a computer) and do not use their body as they should. We are not built to sit, when we do, certain muscles get tight, and certain muscles get weak. This leads to postural faults, trigger points, tension, decreased performance and accelerated arthritis (and other joint dysfunction).

People with Upper Cross Syndrome often have headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain, arm pain and upper back pain. Besides treating symptoms of pain and tension, treating Upper Cross Syndrome can be used to prevent pain, prevent arthritis, prevent disc injuries and improve human performance.

People Who Suffer From Upper Cross Syndrome Have:

  • Forward Head Posture – this can be visualized by looking at a person from the side.  Is their head centered over their body, or is it out in front of them?
  • Forward Rolled Shoulders – the shoulders should be in line with the torso, not pointing out in front of the body
  • Accentuated curvature in their upper back, called “Kyphosis”
  • People with Upper Cross have a hard time putting their hands behind their backs – and it can get so bad, they have a hard time putting on a belt

Upper Cross Syndrome did not occur over night, gets worse over time, and requires a team effort to correct

The “Team” Includes

  • Doctor of Chiropractic to evaluate the musculo-skeletal system and treat misaligned joints
  • Massage Therapist to lengthen shortened muscles and remove muscle pathologies (adhesions, trigger points, neurological weakness)
  • YOU are the most integral part of the team – being mindful of poor posture as well as doing the prescribed exercises, up to three times per day

Massage Therapist Training

All of our Massage Therapists are licensed by DORA to perform massage therapy in Colorado. All of our Massage Therapists complete instructor-led training (by Dr. Moyer) in regards to Upper Cross Syndrome.  Our therapists have been trained in treating the shortened muscles that are pulling the head and shoulders forward, as well as treating the muscles that have developed myofascitis (“trigger points”) because they have been chronically overstretched.

Can I Treat Upper Cross Syndrome Myself?

Generally, no, and here’s why.  The weakened muscles are usually the ones that cause the most pain.  The pain comes from a “knot” in the muscle.  Knots can not be stretched out.

Consider tying a knot in a rope, grabbing both ends of the rope and pulling…the knot gets tighter.

Additionally, misaligned joints may need to be put back into place. Ultimately, trigger points need to be removed, shortened muscles need to be lengthened, weak muscles need to be strengthened, and joints need to be re-positioned.  This is a lot for a person to accomplish on their own, however, it can be done.

To discuss your options, schedule a Postural Evaluation with Dr. Moyer.

Written by: Randy Moyer, DC

Originally Published September 6, 2016, Updated July 22, 2019

Photo Credit: Canva

Read More from Our Blog

mans lower half of the body wearing red shorts on the leg extension machine

Muscle Group of the Week: Quadriceps

The quadriceps femoris – known as the quadriceps extensors, quads, or the quadriceps – is a group...
lower half of woman on an elliptical in pink and grey leggings

Muscle Group of the Week: Glutes

The gluteal muscle group consists of three individual buttock muscles that originate from the...
tape on a hamstring

Muscle Group of the Week: Hamstrings

The biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus are the three posterior thigh muscles...
lower half of man grabbing calves on a dirt trail

Muscle Group of the Week: Calves

The posterior lower leg consists of two main calf muscles known as the gastrocnemius and the...
man in a red top doing a bench press with dumbbells

Muscle Group of the Week: Pectoralis

The most superficial and largest muscle of the anterior chest wall, the pectoralis major is known...