Increased stress on cervical spine: 

• As the head is held forward in poor posture, the cervical spine must support increasing amounts of weight. 

• Just 1 or 2 inches of forward head posture can double or triple the load on the cervical spine. 

Hyperflexion and hyperextension:

• Alteration of the cervical spine’s curve lengthens the spinal canal distance from the base of the skull to the base of the neck, causing the spinal cord and nearby nerve roots to become somewhat stretched. 

Muscle overload: 

• Some muscles in the neck and upper back must continually overwork to counterbalance the pull of gravity on the forward head. As a result, muscles become more susceptible to painful strains and spasms.

Hunched upper back: 

• Forward head posture is often accompanied by forward shoulders and a rounded upper back, which can lead to more pain in the neck, upper back, and/or shoulders. 

Long-term effects of poor cervical posture: 

• Muscle imbalances: Some muscles in the neck, upper back, shoulders, and chest can become shortened and tight, whereas others can become elongated and weak.

• Elevated risk for spinal degeneration: Extra stress on the cervical spine may increase the risk for or worsen degenerative spine issues, such as cervical degenerative disc disease and cervical osteoarthritis.

• Reduced mobility: With increased stiffness in the muscles and/or joints, the neck’s range of motion is decreased.