I want to introduce you to a common problem called Upper Cross Syndrome or UCS. Upper cross syndrome is a chronic issue that generally  takes years to develop. However, once symptoms arise they can cause problems and be very symptomatic,  ultimately leading you to contact your local chiropractor for help.

Headaches, neck pain and jaw pain are often related to misalignments or subluxation in the cervical spine.  If you’ve been reading  post on this site you can recall that subluxations occur when certain muscles attached to the individual segments of the spine (vertebrae), tighten and can move those segments away from their normal position. This in turn causes negative effects that go beyond the general area in question.

Inflammation will begin around the nervous tissue and the nerves function less than optimally and decrease communication signals needed from the spinal cord to their desired location in the body.

If you have UCS you will notice that if you look at yourself in the mirror from the side, your head is forward and your shoulders are rounded towards the front of your body and your chest is somewhat slumped inwards. This type of posture is due to the muscle imbalances in the upper body responsible for keeping you upright and stable while walking around. When you do begin your treatment plan make sure that certain things are being addressed to help you overcome and correct this issue as fast as possible.

There is also a simple change that can be done at home to help reduce the discomfort.
A chiroflow water pillow is a good way to reduce the discomfort while sleeping. They somewhat mold to your neck and support you no matter whether you’re a back, side or stomach sleeper.

Spinal adjustments and postural exercises are the most effective way to restore proper balance in the areas affected by the long term onset of UCS. Over the next few weeks continue to read these post as I share the best ways you can begin working on UCS to reduce the symptoms you have dealt with.