What is forward head carriage (FHC)?
The common theme among neck pain, HA, and TMJ disorder is often Forward Head Carriage (FHC). If you have FHC the lower cervical spine becomes stuck while at C5-6 there is too much motion. The cervicocranial junction (C0-C1) hyperextends and the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle , normally a flexor of the head on the neck, becomes active even though the upper cervicals are in extension. This dysfunctional posture keeps the suboccipitals (SBO)in a shortened range and they adapt by losing their normal tissue extensibility.
Forward Head Carriage increases stress on TMJ as the mandible is forced to translate posteriorly placing excessive tension on the muscle of the jaw; masseter, pterygoid, and temporalis.
What is the treatment for Forward Head Carriage?
- Adjustments to the painful joints
- SBO, Trap, stretching
- SCM, Masseter, Temporalis, and Pterygoid relaxation
- Postural and ergonomic advice
- Deep neck flexor exercises
Here at CSC+M we integrate chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture and massage as part of the treatment plan to achieve lasting results. If you’re suffering from discomfort associated with forward head carriage, contact us today to book a chiropractic appointment in our Manhattan office.
