We all know that hunching over phones and laptops isn’t great for our necks and shoulders. That familiar forward head position—also called “tech neck”—has become increasingly common in our digital age. But could this everyday posture habit be affecting more than just our physical comfort?
Recent research has uncovered a surprising connection between how we hold our heads and our brain health. Scientists are now finding evidence that Forward Head Posture (FHP) might play a role in cognitive decline and dementia. So, what should you know about these recent findings? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Forward Head Posture?
Forward Head Posture (FHP) occurs when your head shifts forward from its proper alignment with your spine, sitting in front of your shoulders. This position places increased strain on your spine and surrounding muscles—adding an extra 10 pounds of pressure for every inch your head moves forward.
This posture disrupts the natural curve of your neck and can compress vital blood vessels and nerves that connect to your brain. The human head weighs about 10-12 pounds when properly aligned. However, with FHP, the weight on your spine can increase dramatically, leading to various health challenges.
What Causes Dementia?
Dementia isn’t a single disease but rather a collection of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. While age is the greatest risk factor, various lifestyle and health factors can influence its development. Some factors that may contribute to its development include:
- Reduced blood flow to the brain
- Inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Disrupted nerve signaling
- Compromised blood-brain barrier function
Are FHP & Dementia Linked?
Recent research has unveiled compelling evidence suggesting a potential link between Forward Head Posture and cognitive decline. A groundbreaking 2023 study published in the Journal of Neurophysiology examined the relationship between cervical spine positioning and cerebral blood flow. The researchers found that FHP may significantly reduce blood flow to the brain compared to normal head positioning. This reduction occurs because FHP compresses the vertebral arteries, which are crucial blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to your brain.
Another study suggests that Forward Head Posture (FHP) could play a role in affecting brain activity, particularly in the frontal and parietal lobes—important regions involved in memory, attention, and decision-making. An increase in gamma wave activity in these regions during FHP may indicate heightened brain stimulation or compensatory activity, which could be a response to postural stress on the nervous system. While more research is necessary, these preliminary findings indicate that spinal posture, cognitive function, and brain health could be more linked than we ever realized.
How Advanced Biostructural Correction™ (ABC™) Can Help
Advanced Biostructural Correction™ offers a unique approach to addressing Forward Head Posture by focusing on the underlying structural misalignments that cause your head to drift forward. Unlike traditional approaches that might only provide temporary relief, ABC™ works to:
- Correct the mechanical problems causing FHP
- Restore proper spinal alignment
- Improve blood flow to the brain
- Reduce nerve compression
- Support natural healing processes
By addressing FHP through ABC™, we may not only improve your posture but potentially support better brain health and cognitive function. If you’re interested in learning more, book your FREE discovery call with your local Finsbury Park chiropractor. BOOK NOW.