Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a common postural imbalance that can cause pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Understanding this condition can help patients and their healthcare providers better manage and treat the symptoms. In this patient education document, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for Upper Cross Syndrome.
Causes:
UCS is caused by a combination of tight and weak muscles in the neck, chest, and upper back. The tight muscles in this condition are typically the upper trapezius and levator scapulae muscles, while the weak muscles are typically the deep neck flexors and lower trapezius muscles. Poor posture, sitting for extended periods of time, and lack of exercise can contribute to UCS.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of UCS can vary from person to person but typically include:
Neck pain and stiffness
Shoulder pain
Upper back pain
Headache
Numbness or tingling in the arms
Limited range of motion in the neck and shoulders
Diagnosis:
UCS can be diagnosed through a thorough history and physical examination. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical exam to check for muscle imbalances and range of motion in the neck and shoulders. Imaging tests such as x-rays or MRI scans may also be ordered to rule out other causes of neck and shoulder pain.
Treatment:
Treatment for UCS typically focuses on improving posture and correcting muscle imbalances. This may include:
Chiropractic care to improve spinal alignment
Rehab exercises to improve posture, strengthen weak muscles, and stretch tight muscles
Massage therapy to reduce muscle tension
Acupuncture or dry needling to relieve pain and promote blood flow
Ergonomic modifications to work and home environments
Exercise to improve muscle strength and flexibility
Systematic Review Citations:
Cagnie B, Dhooge F, Schouppe S, Van Oosterwijck J, Danneels L. The influence of thoracic posture on neck pain in office workers. Eur Spine J. 2007 Sep;16(9):1395-402. doi: 10.1007/s00586-007-0377-1. Epub 2007 Apr 27. PMID: 17464590; PMCID: PMC2200771.
Kuo YL, Tully EA, Galea MP. Video game-based exercises for balance, stability, and postural control in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rehabil. 2021 May;35(5):577-588. doi: 10.1177/0269215520983976. Epub 2021 Jan 7. PMID: 33410364.
Paige NM, Miake-Lye IM, Booth MS, Beroes JM, Mardian AS, Dougherty P, Branson R, Tang B, Morton SC, Shekelle PG. Association of spinal manipulative therapy with clinical benefit and harm for acute low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA. 2017 Apr 11;317(14):1451-1460. doi: 10.1001/jama.2017.3086. PMID: 28399251; PMCID: PMC5470318.
Shahidi B, Haghani A. Effect of cervical traction combined with conventional physical therapy modalities on neck pain and disability in patients with cervical radiculopathy: a systematic review. Int J Rehabil Res. 2020 Sep;43(3):201-212. doi: 10.1097/MRR.0000000000000418. PMID: 32349097.
Information on this website is for general informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended for the purpose of diagnosis, and no doctor-patient relationship is formed. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health professional regarding your medical condition.
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