03/30/2026
Chiropractic: Upper Crossed Syndrome and Neck and Shoulder Pain…
Upper crossed syndrome is a postural imbalance characterized by tightness in the chest and upper neck muscles and weakness in the upper back and deep neck flexors, leading to forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and associated neck and shoulder pain. A recent narrative review reported that upper crossed syndrome may contribute to roughly two-thirds of neck pain cases and up to half of shoulder pain complaints among individuals who regularly use computers. If left unaddressed through ergonomic changes, lifestyle interventions, and conservative treatment approaches (such as chiropractic care), more serious conditions may develop, including nerve impingement, thoracic outlet syndrome, and cervicogenic headaches.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, January 2026