Forward head posture(FHP)is a common problem with many patients. FHP means that your head is no longer in proper alignment with the rest of your body and it places undue stresses on your muscles and joints. This can lead to pain, pinched nerves and the early onset of degenerative process of your vertebral joints.
For every inch your head moves forwards, the head gains 10 pounds in weight, as far as the muscles in your upper back and neck are concerned, because they have to work much harder to keep the head (chin) from dropping forwards onto your chest. This forces the muscles that raise the chin to remain in constant contraction, putting pressure on your suboccipital nerves. This nerve compression may cause headaches at the base of the skull, and may even mimic sinus headaches!
Persistent forward head posture (a.k.a “hyperkyphotic posture”) puts compressive loads upon the upper thoracic vertebra, and is also associated with the development of Upper Thoracic Hump, which can devolve into Dowager Hump when the vertebra develop compression fractures (anterior wedging).
Symptoms associated with Forward Head Posture:
-Headaches
-Neck and upper back pain
-Shoulder pain
-Fatigue
How can Chiropractic Help:
Chiropractic can help by manually re-introducing proper motion to the restricted segments, thereby reducing muscle tension and nerve pressure. Also, the chiropractor should address the postural problems that might have led to the development of FHP, and also teach upper back and postural exercises in order to help reverse the process or reduce the progression of the FHP.
If you have any questions regarding FHP or any other chiropractic concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Best,
Dr. Eric
310-993-8482
Or visit my website at www.drEricNepo.com
Providing Chiropractic Care to Santa Monica, West L.A., Venice, Pacific Palisades and the greater L.A. Area
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