Forward Head Posture is a postural problem whereby the head/neck is too far forward. It can cause a number of problems.
- Musculoskeletal problems: The effects of forward head and neck postures are long-term. These effects may result in muscle strain, disc problems, nerve impingement and the early onset of arthritis.
- Respiratory problems: Forward head posture is strongly linked to decreased respiratory muscle strength and breathing ability. Resulting in up to a 30% loss in vital capacity in the lungs as well as a significant increase in cardiac and vascular pressure.
- Spinal and neural problems: For every inch of forward head posture, it is found to increase the weight of the head on the spine by an additional 10 pounds. On average, this is over a 100% increase of weight-bearing stress on the spine and its associated neuro-muscular structures. A loss of the cervical spinal curve, due to forward head posture, can stretch the spinal cord up to 5-7cm resulting in adverse neural tension.
- Discomfort and pain: Forward head posture results in an increase in discomfort and pain, due to disrupted sensory input from the first four cervical vertebrae.
- Problems with balance: Forward head posture results in an anterior translation of the body’s center of gravity. This in turn results in a significant loss of balance and coordination, and increased likelihood of sustaining a fall.
If you are experiencing any of the highlighted issues above and would like treatment or advice, please contact us.
Reference: The PT Project
