Neck issues...is this the answer.

[Flee]

So I had a small apiphany and I wanted to break it off and see what the masses/experts think.

Due to years of piss poor postural habits I developed chronic back and neck issues. I never really noticed the neck because the back hurt so badly, almost all the time. Well I resolved the back issues with Core Performance (comments welcome on this fine work). But now I need to address the neck.

All the sudden, it popped into my little slow head. TRAPS! Are traps the answer to my neck woes? Bigger stronger traps = more foundation and stability for my long scrawny neck = better posture and no more discomfort.

Comments? Suggestions? Other solutions? Anything and everything is appreciated.

Ryan

[JMR]

I don't think so... In fact, the postural issues that you mentioned force your traps to be activated improperly instead of your shoulders and other associated muscles and that's why your neck hurts. I'm sure that Bill can explain it better. You say that you correct your back strength issues but do you have any thoracic curvature, any rounding of the shoulders?

[Bill Hartman]

A gold star to JMR!

It's usually just the opposite...too much upper trap activity.

Scapular retraction and depression will most likely do better for you.

Bill

[Flee]

Originally posted by JMR:
I don't think so... In fact, the postural issues that you mentioned force your traps to be activated improperly instead of your shoulders and other associated muscles and that's why your neck hurts. I'm sure that Bill can explain it better. You say that you correct your back strength issues but do you have any thoracic curvature, any rounding of the shoulders?

JMR,

Thanks for the input. Very interesting info. I have been working the triangle (shoulders, back and abs) to help solidify my pillar and resolve my low back issues. So perhaps some of that work will eventually lead to neck health as well.

To further identify; my neck issue is a postural issue. It has little to no curvature and puts my head out in front of center. So I have pressure and stiffness. It took years of crappy, office chair posture to creat it. I need to be patient with it's resolve.

I don't have too much of an issue with the rounding of the shoulders. I have learned through Core Performance and via my workouts that a balanced, proper posture is the goal. I do have to focus on "shoulders back, scapula pulled down" from time to time, but it is becoming more second nature.

Any further tips or info is appreciated.

Ryan

[Flee]

Originally posted by Bill Hartman:
A gold star to JMR!

It's usually just the opposite...too much upper trap activity.

Scapular retraction and depression will most likely do better for you.

Bill

Bill,

Thanks for your reply. Neck health is an intergal part of accomplishing several goals I have for creating the ultimate me.

By scapular retraction and depression I am visualizing, seated rows/bent over rows....and wide grip pull ups/lat pull downs? Am I off again?

Thanks for your time,

Ryan