Forward Head Posture

Forward Head Posture (FHP) is one of the most common postural problems we see in our office. You could say it is the modern lifestyle that is responsible for it. Basically, FHP is the result of either repetitive forward head movement, or the carrying or holding of the head in a position where the ears are forward of the shoulder plum-line.

Proper postural alignment finds ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, and ears all falling along the same vertical line. FHP finds the head sticking out, forward of the shoulders, with the ears in line with the chest or front of the deltoids.

What’s causing Forward Head Posture?? Things we do everyday!

-Looking down while typing or reading
-Sitting improperly with shoulders rounded and back hunched (desk workers)
-Driving
-Carrying a backpack or heavy purse over one shoulder

Of course there are other things that could lead to FHP, but you can clearly see what we do day to day effects our posture. The problem is that repeated forward and/or downward facing postures cause synchronized lengthening and shortening of several major muscles (i.e., levator, rhomboid, trapezius, pectoral), degeneration of cervical (neck) vertebrae, and irritation of cervical nerves.

So how can we correct this?? Posture awareness is key! If something starts to hurt, that’s your body telling you to change position. Other things to keep in mind are:

-making sure the top of your computer screen is level with your eyes and 2 to 3 feet away from your face
-do an inventory of your purse or bag. You could be carrying around unnecessary weight.
-having ample lower back support while sitting from long periods.
-take breaks! Set your cellphone timer for every 60 mins and get up and move for 5 minutes.

Our Chiropractors and Massage Therapists at Atlantic Spine Clinic in Mount Pleasant SC are always here to help you out. Give us a call to make an appointment or ask for more information.