The relationship between functional movement patterns and neck pain

Functional movement patterns are the coordinated movements of multiple muscle groups that are necessary for daily activities such as walking, reaching, and bending. When these patterns are disrupted or inefficient, it can lead to imbalances and tension in the muscles of the neck and upper back. This tension can eventually lead to neck pain, and in some cases, headaches.

One common example of an inefficient movement pattern is forward head posture. This occurs when the head is positioned forward of the shoulders, putting extra strain on the muscles of the neck and upper back. Over time, this can lead to chronic tension and pain in these areas.

Another example is poor posture while sitting. Many people spend hours each day sitting in front of a computer or looking down at their phone, which can cause the shoulders to round forward and the head to tilt down. This puts even more strain on the neck and upper back muscles and can lead to tension headaches.

Sports chiropractic can be a valuable tool for addressing neck pain and headaches related to functional movement patterns. A sports chiropractor will first assess your posture and movement patterns to identify any imbalances or areas of tension. They may also use diagnostic imaging or other tests to get a better understanding of the underlying issue.

Once the underlying issue has been identified, the sports chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise and stretching, and lifestyle modifications. By addressing the root cause of the problem, chiropractic care can provide long-term relief of neck pain and headaches related to functional movement patterns.

In addition to chiropractic care, it's also important to make changes to your daily habits and activities to improve your posture and movement patterns. This may include taking breaks from sitting or computer work to stretch and move around, adjusting the height of your computer or phone screen to reduce strain on the neck, and practicing good posture while sitting, standing, and walking.

In conclusion, functional movement patterns can have a significant impact on neck pain and headaches. By addressing these patterns and making changes to your daily habits, you can reduce tension and strain in the muscles of the neck and upper back, and prevent these issues from leading to chronic pain and headaches. If you're experiencing neck pain or headaches, consider consulting with a sports chiropractor to see if chiropractic care may be right for you.