Upper Crossed Syndrome is the definition of a muscle imbalance in the upper body. An imbalance that occurs in the muscle groups of the upper body, so that they are shortened and hypertonic and lose their ability to stretch, in addition to presenting excessive muscle tone. The syndrome is characterized by slouched or raised shoulders, thoracic kyphosis and a forward tilt of the head of less than 50 degrees. The craniocervical region is most exposed to this injury, which is why neck pain and dizziness may occur. Upper Crossed Syndrome can lead to the acquisition of an unattractive posture, a visual decrease in the height of the individual, pain in the neck, shoulders and lower back, reduced range of motion of the shoulder joints, scapular "winging".

CAUSES

This imbalance usually develops in people who sit for long periods of time every day, but it is not uncommon. The causes of the syndrome can be sitting in a hunched position for a long period of time, prolonged use of computer and mobile devices, heavy physical work in poor posture, overweight and immobilization or large bust size in women.

Muscles affected by UPPER CROSSED SYNDROME

UNACTIVE MUSCLES: Lower and middle trapezius; Deep neck flexors; Serratus Anterior.

HYPERACTIVE MUSCLES: Upper trapezius; Levator scapulae; Suboccipital muscles; Sternocleidomastoid; Pectoralis major and minor.