Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/918051
72 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k j a n u a r y / f e b r u a r y 2 0 1 8 Chin Tuck Exercise Modifi cations This exercise may be quite diffi cult or even impossible for clients with advanced FHP. There are certain modifi cations we can make to the exercise and/or the client's position to make things easier for those who cannot perform the motion. • For those clients with mild to moderate FHP, we can simply have them move their feet farther away from the wall—the farther the feet move from the wall, the easier the exercise becomes. • For those with moderate to advanced FHP, we can have the client perform the movement in the supine position. This way, we can use gravity to assist them in accomplishing the contraction. • For those with advanced FHP, we can elevate the client's feet while they are supine. • For those with severe FHP, we can use a small pad/cushion to elevate the upper portion of the skull (thus reducing the mechanical disadvantage of the deep neck fl exors). Chin tucks should be done fi rst thing in the morning, to start the day with the goal of creating awareness around proper head position and strengthening the muscles that will lead to that goal. The chin tuck can be reinforced throughout the day almost anywhere, such as during a standing break at the offi ce or even seated in the car while waiting at a red light. CHIN TUCK EXERCISE To help combat your clients' forward-head posture, off er them this homework. 1. Have the client stand with their back up against a wall. 2. The client's feet should be positioned in front of them, approximately 12 inches from the base of the wall. 3. The client's knees should have a very slight bend (approximately 10°–25°). 4. While keeping the back pressed against the wall, have the client slowly attempt to pull the back of the neck into contact with the wall by tucking their chin to achieve a neutral head position. 5. The client holds this position for 5–30 seconds. 6. The client should repeat this process 5–10 times throughout the day. The Client's Position When providing instruction on this exercise, pay close attention to the client's position. It is important to ensure that the client doesn't: • Raise the shoulders to call into action already overtaxed accessory muscles. • Break the anterior stability line by hyperextending the lumbar spine and/or elevating the rib cage.