‘My neck, my back, my shoulder and my…’ tension that won’t go away

With the pandemic ‘glooming’ on and many people working from home, routines have changed. From our desks in office buildings to our kitchen tables, couches and beds, clients are coming in with neck and shoulder tension now more than ever. 

To better understand where this tension is coming from, we have to consider the muscles at play. Many muscles in the back and neck work hard to support the weight of the head during daily activities. Slouching initiates postural changes and can gradually lead to upper crossed syndrome. 

Symptoms of upper crossed syndrome include:

• Forward head posture
• Tension building along the chest in the pectoralis muscles, as well as the upper back and neck in the upper trapezius and levator scapula
• Muscles like the deep neck flexors, rhomboids, middle and lower trapezius in the back, and serratus anterior affecting your shoulders become weak and inhibited 

Furthermore, the increased tension in the muscles can cause other ailments such as headaches and migraines. 

Massage therapy is an effective way to relieve neck and shoulder pain. It can reduce muscle tension with various techniques that help increase blood circulation, encourage relaxation of soft tissue, and restore optimal range of motion. Your massage therapist may also prescribe stretching, strengthening and/or hydrotherapy to complement your treatment plan, as home care is equally important to the rehabilitation of neck and shoulder tension.

Let’s kickstart the year with a massage from your favourite therapist at Foundation and start living pain- and tension-free! To prolong the results of your treatment, check out the virtual ergonomic assessments that our physiotherapists offer.