forward head posture powerpoint
TRANSCRIPT
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Forward Head Posture
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Healthy Spine Has Curves
• A normal, healthy spine has three curves, which are essential for balance and posture.
1. Backward bend of the
neck
2. Forward bend of the upper back
3. Backward curve of the
low back
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
When the Curves Go Awry
• The curve in the spine of the neck (cervical spine) can straighten or even eventually reverse.
• This reversal is known as forward head posture (FHP).
• FHP is now common because of the amount of time people spend hunched over their desks.
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
The Effects of FHP
FHP can cause vast degenerative
effects in the spine of the neck.
Speeding arthritis
Chronic pain
Limited range of motion
Increasing risk of strain
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Arthritis
• FHP places constant strain on joints.
• Joints that are continuously strained are predisposed to arthritis, which can even begin at early ages.
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Muscle Strain
• FHP dramatically increases the risk of neck muscle strain.
• With FHP, neck and shoulder muscles are constantly working to prevent the head from falling over.
• Muscles designed to stabilize the neck and head must now support the weight of the neck and head.
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
ADHD
• Preliminary research links a reduction in FHP to a reduction in ADHD symptoms.
• In one case study:
3 years No change in ADHD symptoms
5-year-old treated for ADHD
with drugs.
1.
5-year-old receives chiropractic care to correct cervical
kyphosis (precursor to FHP).
2.8 weeks
35 sessions
ADHD symptoms disappear
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Chiropractic Care for FHP
• Chiropractors use chiropractic adjustments to remove vertebral subluxations, which are linked to FHP.
Gentle and effective maneuvers
Areas of the spine where motion is
restricted. They occur when bones (vertebrae)
are out of alignment.
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Scientific Proof
• In one recent study:
30 patients with reduced
cervical curves
30 patients with reduced
cervical curves
Chiropractic care for 14.6 weeks
No care for 14.6 weeks
Significant improvements in pain ratings and head angle
Consistent pain and no change
in cervical curve or
alignment
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Seat Solutions
• Doctors of chiropractic often recommend ergonomic changes to combat FHP:
When sitting, keep head aligned with shoulders, with the middle of your back fairly straight.
Invest in a properly designed seat -- one with:
Lumbar support Armrests
Adjustable height
Seat bottoms with an
inclination of five degrees
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Backpack Basics
• Carrying heavy loads places stress on a child’s rapidly growing spine.
• Limiting backpack weight reduces FHP risks.
• Maximum backpack weight: 10% to 15% of body weight:
Child who weighs 100 pounds
Maximum 10-15 pounds
© Copyright, 2005, PreventiCare® Publishing
Pick Up a Copy of the “Forward Head Posture” OHU
• For more on this topic, please pick up a copy of the corresponding OHU handout.
• Share the OHU handout with friends, family, co-workers, etc. Just let us know how many you need.
• Look to the OHU for citations to research on this topic.