Smash the CanFitPro Personal Training Specialist Exam 2026 – Flex Your Skills and Power Up!

In upper crossed syndrome, the characteristic postural imbalance often involves tightness in certain muscle groups. The upper trapezius and suboccipitals are indeed commonly facilitated, or overactive, in this condition. This syndrome typically arises from prolonged poor posture, such as slouching or forward head position, leading to an imbalance where the upper trapezius muscles become overactive while the opposing muscles, like the deep cervical spine flexors and lower trapezius, become inhibited or weaker.

This facilitated state of the upper trapezius contributes to common symptoms such as neck tension and shoulder elevation, which reinforces the postural deviation associated with upper crossed syndrome. Understanding this helps in addressing the imbalance through targeted stretching and strengthening exercises to correct the posture and improve muscle function.