Understanding Head and Neck Tension
Addressing Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS) and Its Impact on Sleep: A Whole-Patient Approach
Head and neck tension, common ailments affecting both adults and children, involve discomfort and stiffness in the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders. Tension can significantly impact daily activities, comfort, and sleep quality. At BreatheWorks, we adopt a whole-patient and interdisciplinary approach to effectively address and manage this condition.
Symptoms of Head and Neck Tension
Head and neck tension often present with the following physical symptoms:
- Muscle Stiffness: Tightness in the neck, shoulder, and head muscles resulting in decreased range of motion or movement.
- Discomfort or Pain: Ranging from mild to severe, often worsening with movement or at the end of the day and potentially radiating throughout the body.
- Headaches: Tension-type headaches are commonly associated with this condition.
Prevalence of Head and Neck Tension
This condition is increasingly common in both adults and children, particularly with the rise in screen time and sedentary lifestyles. Factors such as workplace ergonomics, stress, and lifestyle choices contribute to its prevalence. The increasing complaints of neck and head pain underscores the importance of a whole-patient approach to assessment and treatment.
Causes of Head and Neck Tension
- Poor Posture: Especially during prolonged sitting or use of electronic devices.
- Stress and Anxiety: Leading to muscle tightening and tension.
- Injury or Trauma: Such as whiplash or repetitive strain injuries.
- Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, poor ergonomic work setups, or inadequate sleep health.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary team providing comprehensive evaluation, examining symptoms, lifestyle, and work habits. In some cases, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs might be recommended to rule out other conditions. Management often includes:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and techniques to strengthen muscles and improve posture.
- Stress Management Techniques: Such as relaxation therapy, meditation, and mindfulness practices to help reduce the impact provided by the mind-body connection.
- Ergonomic Counseling: Recommendations for workspace adjustments to reduce strain.
- Manual Therapy: Including massage and mobilization to relieve muscle tension.
BreatheWorks' Whole-Patient Approach
Our unique approach focuses on providing:
- Whole-Patient Assessment: Conducted by a Speech-Language Pathologist, we take a detailed case history to get a clear picture of your body’s story and assess the function of the speech, swallowing, and breathing mechanisms and their influence on body tension. We will observe how the muscles perform tasks like speaking, chewing, swallowing, clearing your teeth, and breathing and identify the contributing factors that may relate to your symptoms.
- Interdisciplinary Care: Collaborating with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and chiropractors to establish a comprehensive approach to relieving tension and pain.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Tailored to individual needs, focusing on both physical and lifestyle factors.
- Patient Education: Empowering patients with knowledge about posture, ergonomics, and stress management as they directly relate to neck and head tension.
Take our screener and see how you do. We’ll tell you what we think based on your responses
Many people from infancy and into old age suffer from undiagnosed disorders that could be fixed. You don’t have to suffer, we’re here to help, we see you, we’ve got you.
Conclusion
Head and neck tension, though common, can significantly impact bodily pain, posture, and overall quality of life. At BreatheWorks, we provide comprehensive care, addressing the physical aspects of tension as well as contributing lifestyle factors. Through our patient-centered approach, we aim to alleviate symptoms and equip individuals with the tools and knowledge for long-term management and prevention.
Got Questions?
Get answers!
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD)
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD) refer to a group of conditions characterized by abnormal patterns of muscle function and incorrect habits involving the face, mouth, and throat. These disorders can affect various aspects of oral function, including speech, swallowing, breathing, and facial development. Examples of OMD include tongue thrust (where the tongue pushes against or between the teeth during swallowing or at rest), open mouth posture (habitual mouth breathing with the mouth consistently open), and incorrect tongue resting position. OMD can contribute to dental malocclusions, speech articulation difficulties, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, and other orofacial issues.Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT or MYO)
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is a specialized form of therapy designed to address and correct Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD). It focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat to achieve proper resting posture, swallowing patterns, and speech articulation. OMT involves a variety of exercises, techniques, and behavioral modifications tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals. The goals of OMT include improving orofacial muscle strength and coordination, correcting abnormal swallowing patterns, promoting nasal breathing, and enhancing overall oral function and health. OMT is typically provided by speech-language pathologists or therapists trained in orofacial myofunctional therapy techniques.Benefits of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) can be highly beneficial for individuals with Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD). By addressing underlying muscle dysfunction and promoting proper oral habits, OMT can help improve speech clarity, correct swallowing patterns, alleviate breathing difficulties, and optimize facial development. However, the effectiveness of OMT depends on various factors, including the severity of the OMD, the individual’s commitment to therapy, and consistency in practicing exercises and techniques. OMT is often recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as dentists, orthodontists, and ENT specialists, especially when addressing complex orofacial issues.We hold space in our clinicians’ schedules for new patients because we know that early intervention is the best approach. We like to see new patients in less than 2 weeks and typically schedule phase one treatments during the first visit. We can see you virtually or in person. Get started now.