Comprehensive rehabilitation of a patient with upper crossed syndrome

Prasad B. Risaldar, Pratik Phansopkar*, Neha Chitale, Om C. Wadhokar, Sakshi P. Arora

Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT

Background: In upper cross syndrome (UCS), weaker neck flexors, anterior and middle serratus and lower trapezius along with rhomboids usually develop, and stiffness of the levator scapulae, pectoralis major as well as upper trapezius are biomechanically adapted. Muscle imbalance is the primary cause for the upper cross syndrome between the tonic and phasic muscles. Individuals with upper cross syndrome may also exhibit any of the following issues text neck syndrome, round upper back, reduced thoracic spine mobility, winged scapulae. Active Release Technique (ART) helps to reduce discomfort and improve the range of movement. Also, Active Release Technique (ART) is a manual procedure which is also being used for other soft tissue rehabilitation as well as for the management of the scar tissues. UCS and neck pain is common with uncomfortable job postures as well as in stress and anxiety, due to which muscle dysfunction starts which can further followed by altered posture around the neck. Active Release Technique was also used earlier for muscle dysfunction and for scar tissue mobilization. Changes in musculature structure may exhibit chronic headaches among the patients of upper cross syndrome also unbalanced soft tissue near the neck may create barriers for the head’s range of motion (ROM). Patients complaints were pain, decreased job efficiency for which he was later diagnosed as a case of upper cross syndrome. The patient showed great co-operation during the treatment and now the patient is able to perform his job-related tasks without discomfort

Keywords:

Upper cross syndrome, neck pain, ART, weak muscles, posture