UNDERSTANDING WHY WE ARE SHARING THIS ARTICLE
We are posting this article because it calls attention to something many people do not notice until it becomes serious: forward head posture (FHP). This condition happens when the head drifts forward over time instead of stacking directly over the shoulders. That shift changes how much force the neck must carry. Normally the head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds, but when it moves forward the load on the neck increases dramatically. One common guideline states that for every inch the head moves forward the cervical spine feels roughly ten additional pounds of weight. Spine-health+1
That extra weight forces the spine, vertebrae, discs, joints and soft tissues to compensate. The natural curve of the neck can flatten or distort. Muscles at the back of the neck and upper back strain continuously to keep the head upright. At the same time, muscles at the front of the neck often weaken and lengthen. IJRAR+2Spine-health+2 Over months and years these compensations can lead to structural changes. Over time those changes may show up as chronic neck pain, stiffness, headaches, reduced range of motion, nerve irritation or poor posture that affects breathing and overall function. National Posture Institute+2Spine-health+2
WHAT WE TEACH AT OUR OFFICE
In our clinic we teach that posture and spinal alignment are critical to long-term health and proper nervous system function. A healthy spine supports the head so that weight is evenly distributed. When alignment is good the head sits directly over the shoulders and the natural curves act like built-in shock absorbers. That position helps the spine handle everyday stress like sitting, driving, using a phone or computer, lifting children, or carrying groceries.
When posture becomes distorted our patients often do not notice. Forward head posture alters the normal curves of the neck. The lower cervical spine bends forward and the upper cervical spine leans backward to compensate. That distortion increases stress on vertebrae, discs, joints, ligaments, and nerves. Spine-health+2PubMed+2 Muscles at the back of the neck and upper back overwork and tighten. Muscles at the front become weak and unable to hold proper alignment. ScienceDirect+2MDPI+2
Because posture problems can build slowly and remain silent long before pain appears we seldom wait until symptoms develop. We believe in early detection and correction. We encourage regular posture evaluation, spinal alignment, strengthening of supporting muscles, and maintenance care when needed. That approach protects spinal integrity and supports nervous system health over time.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Poor posture and forward head posture do not only affect one person. Many people spend hours each day hunched over computers, phones, or driving. They may not realize their posture is shifting until pain or structural problems appear. Because FHP builds gradually and often silently it can affect friends, family, coworkers, even our children.
Inviting someone you care about into our clinic for a posture and alignment evaluation could save them years of wear and tear. Early detection and correction of postural distortion helps preserve movement, nerve health, spinal structure, breathing function, muscle balance, and overall quality of life.
If you or someone you care about spends long hours on devices, at a desk, driving, or sitting with poor posture or you notice forward-jutting head or rounded shoulders call us today. Let us assess posture and spinal alignment. We can help protect your spine and support long term health for you and your loved ones.
Dr. Holman @ OptimalHealthMN
