Cervical postural syndrome is neck pain caused by poor posture, especially from slouching or having your head pushed forward for long periods, like when using a phone, laptop, or sitting at a desk. Over time, this position overloads the muscles, joints, and ligaments in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and fatigue.

An analogy…

Imagine your head is a bowling ball balanced on a stick (your spine). When it’s upright, it’s easy to hold. But if it leans forward, it gets much heavier and harder to support. That’s what happens with poor posture, your neck muscles work overtime to hold your head up.

What are other names that cervical postural syndrome can be referred to?

Postural Dysfunction

What causes cervical postural syndrome?

The condition is caused by sustained forward head posture, which puts extra stress on the upper cervical spine, lower neck joints, and surrounding muscles. This position often results in overworked neck and upper back muscles, tightness in the chest and front of the neck, and weakness in the deep neck flexors and upper back muscles. It can also cause joint stiffness in the mid and upper spine. Over time, these imbalances create discomfort, reduced movement, and a higher risk of ongoing neck pain.

What are the signs and symptoms of cervical postural syndrome?

• Dull, aching neck pain
• Pain that worsens after sitting or looking down for too long
• Stiffness or tightness in the upper shoulders or base of the skull
• Headaches that start at the back of the head
• Poor posture (rounded shoulders, forward head)
• Muscle fatigue or burning sensation in the upper back
• Relief with movement or stretching

What tests are used to diagnose cervical postural syndrome?

Postural assessment: Practitioner observes how you sit and stand to identify poor alignment.

Range of motion testing: Checks if neck movement is restricted or painful.

How long does cervical postural syndrome take to heal?

Most people improve within a few weeks with good treatment and posture correction. If the poor habits have been there for a long time, it might take a little longer, but full recovery is very possible with consistent effort.

How does cervical postural syndrome happen?

• Long hours sitting at a desk or studying
• Looking down at phones
• Weak postural muscles
• Lack of movement or breaks during the day
• Poor ergonomic setup
• Stress or fatigue causing slouched posture

What treatment can help cervical postural syndrome?

• Hands-on therapy to release tight muscles and mobilise joints
• Postural retraining and ergonomic advice
• Strengthening exercises for upper back and neck
• Stretching for chest and front of shoulders
• Education on movement breaks and desk setup

What exercises or stretches can I do for cervical postural syndrome?

• Chin tucks
• Wall angels
• Upper trapezius and pec stretches
• Shoulder blade squeezes

What products can help with cervical postural syndrome?

• Trigger Ball
• Wheatbag