Understanding Postural Syndromes: Upper and Lower Crossed Syndrome in Gilbert AZ

Modern life places massive demands on the body — especially for those who sit at a desk, drive frequently, use screens daily, or engage in repetitive work activities. Over time, these daily habits can create patterns of muscle imbalance known as Postural Syndromes in Gilbert AZ.

Two of the most common are:

• Upper Crossed Syndrome
• Lower Crossed Syndrome

These patterns are incredibly common and are often the real cause behind:

• Neck pain
• Shoulder tightness
• Headaches
• Low back pain
• Hip tightness
• Reduced mobility
• Fatigue or stiffness

This article will help you understand what postural syndromes are, how they develop, and how to correct them effectively with care in Gilbert AZ.

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What Are Postural Syndromes?

Postural syndromes occur when certain muscles become overactive and tight, while others become weak and underused.

This creates a “crossed” pattern of imbalance across the body.

These imbalances change how your body:

• Stands
• Moves
• Supports joints
• Handles load and daily stress

When posture is altered long enough, the body begins operating from a compensated, dysfunctional position, leading to repeated strain and pain.

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Upper Crossed Syndrome

Common in: Desk workers, students, drivers, mobile phone users — essentially anyone who sits frequently.

What Happens in Upper Crossed Syndrome

• Tight Muscles:
  • Upper traps
  • Pec major/minor
• Weak Muscles:
  • Deep neck flexors
  • Mid/low trapezius and rhomboids

This creates the classic:

• Forward head posture
• Rounded shoulders
• Tight neck and shoulder muscles

Common Symptoms

• Neck stiffness
• Tension headaches
• Shoulder pain
• Between-the-shoulder-blade burning
• Reduced ability to sit upright

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Lower Crossed Syndrome

Common in: People who sit often, athletes with strong quads but weak glutes/core, and anyone with prolonged hip flexion.

What Happens in Lower Crossed Syndrome

• Tight Muscles:
  • Hip flexors
  • Lower back muscles
• Weak Muscles:
  • Core stabilizers
  • Glutes

This leads to:

• Anterior pelvic tilt
• Increased low back curvature
• Tight hips
• Weak backside muscles

Common Symptoms

• Low back pain
• Hip tightness
• Hamstring strain feelings
• Difficulty standing upright for long periods
• Stiffness after sitting

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How We Diagnose Postural Syndromes in Gilbert AZ

At Axis Spine and Sport - Gilbert, we use:

• Visual posture evaluation
• Movement screening
• Muscle activation testing
• Chiropractic and orthopedic testing
• Functional movement patterns

We determine which muscles are overworking and which are underworking, so treatment is precise, not generic.

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Effective Options for Postural Syndromes

To correct postural syndromes, treatment must:

1. Relax and lengthen tight muscles
2. Activate and strengthen weak muscles
3. Restore joint alignment
4. Rebuild healthy movement patterns

Treatment May Include:

• Chiropractic Adjustments
  Restores spinal alignment and joint mobility.
• Soft Tissue Therapy & Myofascial Release
  Reduces muscle guarding and tension.
• Corrective Exercise Training
  Activates weak muscles and retrains posture.
• Posture + Ergonomic Coaching
  Helps prevent pain from returning.
• Core and Glute Strengthening Programs
  Rebuilds the foundation of good posture.

Patients generally start feeling improvement within a few visits, especially when home exercises are performed consistently.

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Can Postural Syndromes Be Prevented?

Yes — but prevention requires maintaining movement balance throughout the day.

Helpful habits include:

• Taking frequent movement breaks from sitting
• Stretching hip flexors and chest muscles
• Strengthening core and upper back muscles
• Setting up an ergonomic work environment
• Staying active and varying movement patterns

Small daily habits make a big difference over time.

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Get Expert Posture Care at Axis Spine and Sport - Gilbert

If you recognize the symptoms of postural imbalance, the good news is that it’s highly correctable — when treated correctly.

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Schedule an Appointment

Call or Text: (480) 842-5020
Book Online: www.axisspineandsport.com

At Axis Spine and Sport - Gilbert, our providers specialize in corrective movement, posture rehabilitation, and long-term pain solutions.

We’ll help you move better, feel better, and stay better.