COMPARISON BETWEEN MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUE AND MYOFACIAL RELEASE IN UPPER CROSS SYNDROME IN COLLEGE STUDENTS : PILOT STUDY

Cervical Cross Syndrome, referred to as Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is described as a predictive pattern of alternative tightness and weakness of Upper Trapezius, Pectoralis Major, Levator Scapulae, Rhomboids,Serratus Anterior and Deep Flexors of the neck, particularly Scalene muscles caused due to poor working habits, inappropriate body ergonomics, or low self-esteem7,8,9. Upper Cross Syndrome is a characterized by muscular imbalance of skeletal muscles activation and inhibition rather than just single muscle involvement. Any failure of activation between tonic and phasic muscles results in muscular insufficiencies10. Consequently, neck and upper back pain is the foremost complaint of UCS 2

This syndrome can cause a multitude of dysfunctions within the body including headaches, early degeneration of the cervical spine, and loss of the cervical curve. In addition, UCS can cause an abnormal kyphotic thoracic spine and altered biomechanics of the glenohumeral joint. Altered biomechanics of the cervical spine may lead to a loss of cervical curve and, if not addressed, degeneration of the cervical spine.The alterations in function of the musculature, in people with UCS, often cause theseindividuals to develop chronic headaches. “Age-related degenerative changes have an impact on the structure of tissues and the subsequent mechanics of the cervical spine. Posture is a product of multiple biomechanical processes within the body to include but not limited to, joint structure and function, muscle balance, nervous system function, and the righting reflex. Through the aging process, UCS affects one’s ability to compensate for aberrant functioning systems within our bodies. This decline in compensation and increase in symptomatology can lead to more chronic and degenerative changes.4