 What is Upper Back and Neck Pain?
Pain in the upper back and neck is common. It can be acute or can gradually come on through poor posture and other factors.
Symptoms of Tightness in the Neck and Upper Back1
If you are affected by pain, reduced range of motion, stiffness,
radiating pain, pressure or numbness, headaches, poor posture, chronic
neck or back pain, difficulty sleeping, fibromyalgia, have a history of
injuries such as an auto accident, fall or sports injury, are
recovering from surgery or trauma of any kind, you may be a good
candidate for myofasical release therapy.
Causes of Tight Muscles of the Neck and Upper Back2
- Overuse causes small micro tears in the muscles. The muscles then tighten up to protect themselves.
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Poor stretching routines, particularly after training. If the muscle is not stretched to it's natural length regularly it may adaptively shorten.
- Bad posture. The head is a very heavy object and if you position it just a few centimeters the wrong way this can considerably increase the work the muscles of the back and neck have to do
Prevention / Treatment of Upper Back and Neck Pain
The following guidelines are for information purposes only. Seeking
professional advice before beginning rehabilitation is recommended.
The recommended activities to prevent Upper Back and Neck Pain are:
- Stretch properly and regularly.
- Concentrate on good posture until it becomes second nature.
- Use strengthening exercises to strengthen the weak muscles of the upper back.
"Myofascial Release" or "Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy” is a technique used to release the fascia (web of connective tissue that covers and connects the muscles, organs, and skeletal structures in our body) and knotted muscle fibers with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and balancing the body. The therapists at Advanced Alternatives Massage Therapy have specialized training in Myofascial Release Techniques and Trigger Point Therapy.
Sources:
- http://www.hopkinsspinalcare.com/index.php?catID=135
- http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/back/upperbackneck/tightmuscles.htm
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