Screening for Upper Cross Syndrome in Asymptomatic Individuals

Heena Pathan, Pratik Phansopkar, Waqar M. Naqvi

Department of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, DMIMS, Wardha, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT

Upper cross syndrome (UCS) refers to tightness of muscles such as pectoralis major, upper trapezius and levator scapulae and weakness of deep neck flexors, scalene, rhomboids, serratus anterior, middle and lower trapezius. Poor posture is associated with imbalance created in musculoskeletal system and common condition to be reported as upper cross syndrome. It is commonly seen in people with forward head posture, desk job workers, dentist, beauticians etc. The resulting clinical presentation is complaint of pain in neck and shoulder, cervicogenic headache, hunched upper-back and rounded shoulder. Children are not as proactive today and the rate of the UCS is on the rise. This deviated posture and sedentary lifestyle continues, where it progresses more as the age progresses in adulthood. To screen, detect, early treat as well as prevent upper cross syndrome in young individuals. Asymptomatic individual with 20-40 years of age group was explained about the procedure before commencement of the study. Posture was screened using REEDCO Posture Assessment Scale was used for evaluation. Assessment of muscle tightness and weakness was evaluated using muscle length tests and manual muscle testing. From the current study we conclude that prevalence of UCS is significantly less in asymptomatic individuals as compared to symptomatic. Although it is very important to practice good posture in daily routine in order prevent early signs of UCS. The parameters of outcome measures were analyzed by descriptive statistics only. Based on previous data we conclude that it is essential to screen asymptomatic individual to looks for signs of UCS for early detection, prevention and treatment.

Keywords:

Upper Cross Syndrome, Manual Muscle Testing, Muscle Length Testing