What is Straight Neck Syndrome?
In a healthy musculoskeletal system, the back of the neck should have a gentle c-shaped curve. This curve helps the upper cervical spine support the weight of the head and assists with the head’s movement. Lordosis is when this part of the spine doesn’t curve the way it should.
Sometimes known as “military neck” or “straight neck” syndrome, cervical lordosis can cause a variety of neck and back problems.
Signs and Symptoms of Straight Neck Syndrome
The first sign of straight neck syndrome is a noticeable lack of a curve in the back of the neck, or for the curve to be the wrong way. This postural problem can cause neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, headaches, muscle spasms, or a tingly/numb feeling. It may cause a stiff neck and you may have trouble lifting your head to the proper upright position.
In more serious cases, straight neck syndrome can interfere with swallowing or breathing. It may cause vision problems, weakness in the extremities, or very severe cases, paralysis.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Effects Straight Neck Syndrome
The upper cervical spine runs from the base of the skull, through the neck. If there is trauma to this part of the spine due to an injury or accident, it can cause the vertebrae to become misaligned. Misalignments cause inflammation and disruption to the nerve tissue, causing weakness in the surrounding muscles.
Another thing that can cause straight neck syndrome is the use of mobile phones. Doctors have seen an increase in this musculoskeletal disorder in children and adults since hand-held phones become more common. When the head is thrust forward or in a downward position for long periods, the weight puts undue stress on the neck and may cause postural defects.
How Our Straight Neck Syndrome Treatment Works
The underlying cause of straight-neck syndrome must be addressed to help correct the posture: the upper cervical spine needs to be properly realigned by an expert to restore proper functioning and facilitate healing. This is how we at Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Boulder can help.
Dr. Christina Coblish and Dr. Ryan Moeskau are specialists trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a technique focused on the health of the upper cervical spine. This is a modern technique that involves technologically advanced 3D imaging scanners to help doctors target and calculate misalignments, eliminating the guesswork for more exact adjustments.
The doctors then use gentle corrections with swift, low-force motions to bring the spine back to the correct alignment. There are no jarring snaps and twists involved with the Blair technique, making it a safe, effective, non-invasive way to treat straight neck syndrome.
If you believe your neck or back pain is caused by straight neck syndrome or other postural defects, contact us for a consultation and let us help. Our areas of coverage include Boulder, Longmont, Louisville, Erie, Lafayette, Broomfield, and Denver in Colorado.