Understanding and Managing Military Neck: A Path to Improved Wellbeing
Military neck, also known as cervical kyphosis or straight neck, can significantly impact daily life and performance. For those aiming for peak physical or mental output, understanding and addressing this condition is essential to maintaining mobility and comfort. At Elite Performance Therapy, we’re dedicated to supporting you in overcoming these challenges and optimising your health.
What Is Military Neck?
A healthy neck has a natural ‘C’ curve, known as lordosis, when viewed from the side, gently curving forward at the base of the cervical spine and back toward the head. Military neck, named for the upright posture associated with military stance, refers to the loss of this natural curve, resulting in a straighter or forward-tilted cervical spine. This altered alignment can lead to discomfort and reduced function, affecting overall wellbeing.
Symptoms of Military Neck
Military neck can cause a range of symptoms, including stiffness, reduced range of motion, headaches, and pain in the neck or extremities (fingers and toes). Some individuals may experience muscle weakness, coordination issues, or, in severe cases, spine deformity. In extreme, untreated cases, complications like paralysis or bladder and bowel control issues may arise, though these are rare. Symptoms vary from person to person, depending on the severity and underlying cause.
What Causes Military Neck?
Military neck often stems from poor posture, such as slouching at a desk, looking down at devices, or improper sleeping positions. Other causes include:
- Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, intervertebral discs may thin and collapse, altering the neck’s natural curvature and creating an imbalance due to the head’s weight.
- Iatrogenic Disorder: Certain medical procedures, like a laminectomy to relieve spinal pressure or an unsuccessful cervical spine fusion, can destabilise the spine, leading to military neck, particularly in younger patients.
- Congenital Disorder: Some individuals are born with cervical kyphosis due to abnormal spine development, often accompanied by other bodily complications, such as urinary or kidney issues.
- Trauma: Injuries from car accidents, falls, or sports can damage ligaments or vertebrae, causing the spine to heal in an unnatural shape, sometimes leading to spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) and associated neurological symptoms.
How Remedial Massage Therapy Can Help
Remedial massage therapy can be an effective approach for managing military neck symptoms. By targeting tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, this therapy helps relieve muscle tightness that contributes to poor posture and discomfort. Techniques like deep tissue massage and myofascial release can improve blood flow, enhance flexibility, and reduce stiffness, supporting the restoration of the neck’s natural curvature. Regular sessions may also promote relaxation, easing stress-related muscle tension, a common factor in military neck. While not a standalone solution, remedial massage therapy complements other strategies, helping to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Strategies for Managing Military Neck
Proactive management can alleviate symptoms and improve neck function. Here are practical approaches:
1. Improve Posture
Consciously maintaining proper posture during daily activities, such as sitting upright or using ergonomic setups, can help restore the neck’s natural curve.
2. Incorporate Stretching and Strengthening
Gentle stretches for the neck and shoulders, combined with exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, can enhance flexibility and stability. Examples include chin tucks and scapular stabilization exercises.
3. Seek Professional Guidance
Consulting a healthcare professional can provide tailored strategies, including medications for pain or inflammation and non-invasive approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy for stress management.
4. Create a Supportive Routine
Using supportive pillows for sleep and taking regular breaks from prolonged sitting or device use can reduce strain on the cervical spine.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
Military neck doesn’t have to limit your potential. By addressing posture, incorporating remedial massage therapy, and adopting healthy habits, you can reduce symptoms and enhance performance. At Elite Performance Therapy, we’re here to guide you toward optimal health. Ready to tackle military neck? Book a complimentary phone call with us to discuss personalised strategies that work for you.