The Reverse Head Tilt: A Simple Postural Exercise for Better Neck and Back Health
If you spend hours each day sitting at a desk, looking at your phone, or working on a computer, chances are your posture has taken a hit. One of the most common issues chiropractors see is forward head posture, also known as upper cross syndrome. This condition happens when the muscles in the front of the body become tight and overactive, while the muscles in the back become weak and overstretched. The result can be neck pain, headaches, shoulder tension, and an overall slouched appearance.
Dr. Kevin Hullman of Optimal Health Chiropractic recommends a quick and effective corrective exercise called the reverse head tilt. He’s taught this move to thousands of people, and it works.
How to Perform the Reverse Head Tilt
The best part about this exercise is its simplicity. You don’t need any equipment, just a few minutes each day and a little consistency. Here’s how to do it:
Start in neutral posture. Most people think “neutral” is much farther forward than it really is. Instead, think of your head as being about 40 degrees from parallel, like a plane taking off.
Gently tilt your head backward. On a scale of 0 to 10 in terms of effort, this should be a zero. It’s not about forcing or straining. Simply tilt back, return to neutral, and repeat. Avoid pushing your head forward at any point.
Add hand placement for guidance. Place two to three fingers at the base of your neck on each hand. Use them as a guiding point or fulcrum. Now, pull your elbows back as far as you comfortably can. This part may feel challenging, especially if your chest and shoulders are tight, but that’s exactly why it’s so important.
Repeat with control. From neutral, tilt your head back, return to center, and repeat. Aim for 25 reps, four times per day.
Why This Exercise Matters
Gravity never stops pulling us forward, and our daily habits, like scrolling, sitting, and hunching, don’t make things easier. The reverse head tilt helps retrain your body to move in the opposite direction, combating the effects of poor posture.
When you practice this consistently, you:
Stretch tight chest and front-neck muscles
Strengthen weak back and postural muscles
Relieve tension in the neck and shoulders
Promote better alignment and posture
If you find this exercise uncomfortable or difficult, it’s a sign that you really need it. That stiffness means your body has drifted further out of alignment than you may realize.
The Bottom Line
The reverse head tilt is a small, gentle movement, but it can have a big impact on your posture and spinal health. By adding just a few sets into your daily routine, you’ll be taking important steps toward reducing pain, improving alignment, and protecting your body against the long-term effects of forward head posture.
As Dr. Hullman says: “Gravity doesn’t quit. This is a battle, and I don’t want you to quit either.”
Apple Podcasts Preview The Synergy of Chiropractic and Yoga Therapy with Dr. Kevin Holman Yoga Therapy Hour with Amy Wheeler Self-Improvement In this episode of
We were thrilled to announce the grand opening of Optimal Health Chiropractic, a premier wellness destination dedicated to serving the wonderful community of Hastings, Minnesota.
Excellent care and advice given by doctor. Will recommend Optimal to friends as I believe this approach to care is the right approach. Very satisfied with initial visit.
I have used several chiropractors in the 11 or so years I have been using one. What I’ve learned is that many are different, including their treatment. Dr. Kevin is a true professional who actually works with your body, tracks progress, and thinks long-term when it comes to his care. I would highly recommend him!
Excellent chiropractor. The reason I started going was due to shoulder plain which is completely gone. Very thorough and excellent communication. Always a positive experience.
Dr. Holman provides exceptional chiropractic care—he’s thorough, takes his time with each patient, and ensures you feel heard and cared for. His adjustments are gentle and never painful, making every visit both effective and comfortable.
I started seeing Dr. Holman a year and a half ago with lower back pain. I wasnt even able to sit in the bleachers and watch a full game for my kids sports. I took a chance and made an appointment. It was life changing! Im pain free daily now and Dr. Holman and Vanessa are so easy to work with and accommodating with schedules!!!
I found doc Hollman when I couldn't walk without feeling pain in my lower back, the walk where you feel every step and it's like you're afraid to move. I was fit for a same day appointment and that was almost 2 years ago. Very thankful for our adjustments, friendly always, very easy to schedule and work with.
Chronic neck pain for 6 months. Saw Ortho, Neuro, pain clinic, pain and nerve meds no relief. Decided to see Dr Holman in January and I am feeling great! He is thorough, professional and clear in explaining my plan for treatment.
It's early on in my care, with Dr. Kevin, and his staff, but I believe they have outlined a comprehensive care plan for me, specific to my particular spinal issue, that will result in a positive outcome! Nice convenient location, nice office atmosphere!
Dr. Holman continues to do a great job helping me maintain the improvements we have made with my back, neck and legs since my initial visit more than 2 years ago. Whenever something comes up, he is quick to adjust the problem area and recommend additional steps I can do at home to continue my progress. I would highly recommend making an appointment if you are having any issues!
I originally chose Dr Kevin's practice because he has a decompression table. This was recommended to me for my sciatica. It is worked wonders. Needed that for just a short time! I continue with a maintenance program that is making me feel like a new man!
Dr. Holman is a great chiropractor. He is very intuitive. I am always amazed that when I tell him something that is a little off, he adjusts me for it. He just knows his craft so well. He has so much knowledge about the spine and body connection. He is very good at teaching me about exercises I can do to strengthen my body and prevent aches.<br><br>Vanessa is also great at her job. She is warm and welcoming and understands the billing process. She helps make things seamless.<br><br>I have gone to a few other chiropractors but have never gotten the care that I get with Dr. Holman. And he is always timely. Rarely do I have to wait beyond my appointment time. I highly recommend him. You won’t regret it.
Dr. Holman is a phenomenal chiropractor! He communicates and educates his patients in the adjustment process and is proactive in giving advise and preventive care measures. I've been seeing Dr. Holman for over 2 years and have seen the difference it makes to be consistent. I can count on one hand the amount of headaches I've had since starting treatment and my overall health has significantly improved. Thank you for being present in the Hastings community!
I walked in with great pain- Dr Holman then explained the process answered all questions. No pressure, just both had a goal of healing. Vanessa also wonderful addition to the team.
I had a great time today getting my shoulder and back checked. Dr. Holman was very kind and professional. He walked me through everything step-by-step and made sure. I understood what he was doing and what I should be doing going forward my first appointment. I had x-rays done and the back alignment. Vanessa was very kind and helpful upfront and she helped me with getting my insurance and payment plan set up. These folks did such a good job today that I made my girlfriend appointment immediately after mine. I’m really satisfied with today’s results and I wish I could give these guys a 10/5! Definitely coming back. From the moment I walked in until I left I felt welcomed and well cared for.
After three weeks of decompression therapy and adjustments I am able to stand upright, bend and twist without pain. Dr. Kev provides great care. He talks to you patiently and explains everything he is doing to your spine. Any questions are answered immediately and he will communicate with you between sessions.<br>Vanessa handles the front of house like a breeze. Extremely easy to work with. She picks the music playing while you’re there, it’s calming and energetic. She also answers questions you have to fill in the gaps between her and the Doc.<br>I can not recommend them enough. Completely satisfied with all the work they do.
You know it's going to be a great day when you are always first welcomed to Optimal Health Chiropractic with a smile from Vanessa as you walk in the door. My family is so glad that Dr. Holman decided to come to Hastings. My wife, son (13) and I all see him for care and it has helped us all. I can tell it makes a difference in my sons posture when playing hockey. I highly recommend a visit to Optimal Health Chiropractic if you haven't already been there.
My daughter recommended Dr Holem for me after she had great results. I had limited rotation in my neck and it has much improved with his adjustments. I look forward to continued improvement under his care!
It’s been a long and healing journey, and Kevin has helped me immensely along the way. He’s very detail-oriented and provides helpful advice to maintain my progress between visits. The staff there are amazing, and scheduling or rescheduling with him is always easy.
Vanessa and Dr. Holman are fantastic! I have been going to Optimal Health for a few years now after I first found them to help with a lower back flare up. They have helped me so much to improve how I feel everyday. My back is significantly better and I have much fewer headaches! I am so happy I found this office and highly recommend them to anyone looking for chiropractic care!
Best chiropractic experience I’ve had. So friendly and informative. After 15+ years of back pain I’m finally starting to feel relief after only a little over a month.
Staff is very friendly. The doctor is very knowledgeable and doesn't just talk at you but explains everything with detail. Very pleased I was recommended this facility.
So happy I made the decision to come to Optimal Health Chiropractic. It’s has made a big improvement on my comfort and mobility after my knee injury. Highly recommend you come and check them out!
This is a great place. I feel very welcomed every time I enter. Kevin Holman, knows what he is talking about and answer all of my questions in a very easy to understand way. On the plus side too my back is feeling great.
Optimal health chiropractic is a very welcoming space. Staff takes the time to ask questions and learn about their clients. A great addition to the Hastings community!
Dr. Holman and his staff are fantastic! The office is always welcoming and professional. Dr. Holman takes the time to listen and provides excellent, effective care— have been going consistently now for the last couple years and always leave feeling better.
I originally started my chiropractic care well over a year ago because I had chronic ear pain. I went to several doctors and was prescribed antibiotics TWICE by two separate doctors who figured because of the visible inflammation in my ears that it was an ear infection. I constantly felt like I had water in my ears along with the pain. When the antibiotics didn’t work, for the second time, I went to an ENT specialist and he said you must have TMJ and sent me on my way. Months of back and forth with no help and finally got myself to seek chiropractic care thinking well this a last resort who knows if it will help. Wow do I wish I would’ve done that sooner!!! Within the first 2 months my ear pain was barely noticeable and the feeling of water in my ears had went away completely.<br>Along with no more ear pain, I’ve seen improvements in all areas, my neck and back mobility is much better, as a bonus my mood and mental clarity benefited too. Dr. Holman is incredibly kind and informative, scheduling is a breeze, I have had to move things around multiple times and they are always so accommodating. If you’re thinking about starting your chiropractic journey this is your nudge to do it!
I’ve been to a few chiropractors and this one is by far the best. After I was treated, I signed up for twice a month maintenance package and am very happy with the service. Have not have any back problems since Dr Holman started treating me.
I have seen many chiropractors in different cities and states. Kevin is on the top of his game. God given talent that is rare to find and manners to match!! If you are looking for a new chiropractor, Kevin is the Doc for you!!
I can’t recommend Dr. Kevin Holman enough! He truly takes the time to listen, and I always feel heard and cared for. What stands out most is that he doesn’t just adjust and send you on your way, he takes the time to educate you about what’s going on with your body and gives you at-home stretches and exercises to support your healing. It’s clear he genuinely cares about his patients’ long-term health and well-being. Highly recommend!
I highly recommend Optimal Health Chiropractic. Dr. Holman did a great job of assessing my issues and putting together a plan to get them resolved. After a couple months of visits I am virtually pain free.
I have been suffering with multiple pain and mobility issues for quite some time. Walking into Optimal Health a few weeks ago was a game changer.. Dr Holman has already been able to make a huge difference . My mobility and strength have improved, flexibility and stamina are slowly returning. I have been educated and motivated to take better care of my health. Easy appointment setting, and office communication with Vanessa up front.i highly recommend anyone who wants to function better in your daily life to start at this practice!
Great guy that really understands how the body works. He has helped me tremendously, after failed attempts with other chiropractors. Actually focuses on what is wrong with patients body, which goes a long way.
Dr. Holman is the best. Started seeing him about 2 months ago, been having leg and hip pain. He has done an awesome job getting the pain to almost go away. I have been feeling a lot better since I started seeing him!
I started seeing Dr. Holman over 1 year ago after struggling with chronic migraines.<br><br>Within just a few visits, I noticed a significant improvement in both the frequency and intensity of my migraines.<br><br>As my health journey continued, I stayed under chiropractic care throughout my recent pregnancy. The ongoing adjustments helped tremendously with the usual aches, tension, and shifting posture that come with pregnancy.<br><br>Now postpartum, I continue my own care and have also started bringing in my newborn for gentle infant adjustments.<br><br>The entire team is warm, welcoming, and professional. This practice has become an essential part of our wellness routine, and I couldn’t recommend them more for anyone — whether you're dealing with chronic issues, pregnancy-related discomfort, or just looking to support your family's health naturally.
