Forward Head Posture Causing Pain and Headaches? Chiropractic Care Can Help

The citizens of Burnsville, MN live in a forward facing world. Computers, TV, video games, and backpacks force our bodies to adapt a forward head posture. Repetition of forward head movements and poor ergonomic postures or trauma can cause the body to a adapt a Forward Head Posture (FHP), which can cause headaches, spinal pain, mood and blood pressure and decreased lung capacity.

Your 5-10 lb. head should ideally sit directly on your neck and shoulders. Over time, strain can cause the head to tilt forward and actually feel heavier.  According to the Physiology of Joints, for every inch your head moves forward it adds 10 lbs. of pressure to your upper body.

When your spine is subject to the added weight over a period of time, they deform and the changes can become permanent. Additionally, FHP has shown to straighten or flatten the normal neck curve. This can result in damage, disc compression and arthritis, all which can lead to pain and headaches.

Solutions:

• Have a full screening by your chiropractor, who can diagnose your issues and provide solutions.
• Place your (TV, game or computer) monitor at a height so the top third of the screen is even with your eyes. Support your lower back as you sit in-front of the screen.
• Every 20-39 minutes do stretching exercises, which should include sitting up straight and rolling your neck and head back and stand against a wall with a small pillow at the mid-back. Move your head back to touch the wall and hold.
• Use a back support pillow for sitting and driving.
• Do a floor stretch lying on your stomach and extending your head and shoulder up, while pinching your shoulder blades together.
• If you wear backpack, keep the weight to 15% of the carrier’s weight and wear a waist belt and a chest belt. Never wear a backpack over one shoulder. 

By monitoring your posture and working with your chiropractic care team, you can lead a life with less pain and prevent further damage.