The cervical spine is designed to serve a multitude of unique biomechanical functions. Aside from supporting the head on the body, it acts as a ‘shock absorber’ for the internal neural structures (brain & spinal cord). Its various foramen allows for passage of various nerves to travel distally to all parts of the extremities. To perform these functions effectively, the head posture should align vertically with the body’s center of gravity. When referencing the plumb line from a side-view an individual’s ear should align directly over their shoulder joint. In the world of iPhones however this ‘ideal’ head position is substituted more for a forward head position, where the head translates anteriorly.
While forward head posture will not only affect the musculoskeletal system, a new study published in Gait & Posture journal found that a forward head can also affect your nervous system and autonomic functions. Chronic forward head posture leads to an overuse and abuse of the cervical neck musculature leading to an increased risk for injury. As cervical muscles become fatigued over time this forward head posture can lead to muscle imbalances and even cervical instability. This instability can decrease the neurological functions of the lower part of the brain stem affecting the vagus, glossopharyngeal and accessory nerves. This may explain why individuals with forward head posture commonly experience chronic headaches, “tight” shoulders, jaw pain, GI disturbances and difficulty swallowing/eating.
Education paired with postural correction exercises emphasizing mobility and stability should be implemented to avoid and/or reverse the negative effects of a forward head posture. While tight shoulders and headaches may be a client’s primary concern, this is likely only a symptom of a greater underlying cause.
If you experience any of these symptoms or want to address your forward head posture, send us an appointment request below!
Source: Alowa Z, Elsayed W. The impact of forward head posture on the electromyographic activity of the spinal muscles. J Taibah Univ Med Sci. 2020 Dec 16;16(2):224-230. doi: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2020.10.021. PMID: 33897327; PMCID: PMC8046829.
