Forward Head Posture Treatment

If you're experiencing persistent shoulder tension, neck stiffness, and tension headaches that won't go away no matter what you try, forward head posture could be the hidden cause. As a remedial massage therapist with 18 years of experience treating clients in Wembley and throughout Perth, I see this condition every single day – and I can help you find relief.

A man with dark hair and a beard looking down at his smartphone. An example of forward head posture which can lead to neck or shoulder pain and headaches.

What is Forward Head Posture?

Forward head posture occurs when your head shifts forward from its natural alignment over your shoulders. For every inch your head moves forward, your neck and shoulder muscles must work 10 times harder to support it – like holding a bowling ball at arm's length instead of close to your body. In our modern world of smartphones, computers, and desk work, almost everyone develops some degree of forward head posture. The problem is that most people don't realise this is what's causing their chronic pain.

A man sitting at a desk looking down at his laptop, holding their neck in pain with both hands, in a workspace. An example of a poor office set-up that can lead to forward head posture causing neck and should pain or headaches.

Signs You Have Forward Head Posture Does this sound familiar?

  • Tension headaches that start at the base of your skull

  • Persistent shoulder tension and that stubborn knot between your shoulder blades

  • Neck stiffness, especially when you wake up

  • Upper back fatigue by the end of the day

  • Difficulty finding comfortable sleeping positions

  • Shoulders that sit higher than they should

    If you're nodding along to these symptoms, you're not alone. These are the exact complaints I hear from clients throughout Wembley, West Leederville, and Subiaco every week.

Young man with a slightly hunched posture looking down at his laptop. An example of a poor office set-up that can lead to forward head posture causing neck and should pain or headaches.

Why Forward Head Posture Develops

Think about your typical day:

  • Hours looking down at your phone

  • Leaning into your computer screen

  • Hunching over the steering wheel during your commute

  • Poor workstation ergonomics

Each of these activities gradually pulls your head forward, creating a cascade of muscle imbalances. The muscles at the front of your neck become tight and shortened, while the muscles at the back become overstretched and weakened. Your shoulders compensate by rounding forward, and the cycle perpetuates itself.

How Remedial Massage Treats Forward Head Posture

While stretching and exercises can help (and I'll teach you these), addressing forward head posture that's been developing for months or years typically requires professional treatment.

My treatment approach includes:

Deep Tissue Massage

Targeting the overworked muscles in your neck, shoulders, and upper back that have been compensating for poor posture.

Trigger Point Therapy

Releasing specific trigger points that contribute to referred pain patterns, including those tension headaches.

Myofascial Release

Addressing the fascia (connective tissue) restrictions that develop from chronic postural strain.

Corrective Exercise Education

Teaching you simple exercises and postural awareness techniques to maintain the improvements between treatments and prevent recurrence.

What to Expect from Treatment First Appointment:

During your initial visit to my Wembley clinic, I'll take time to understand your pain patterns, daily activities, and treatment goals. The massage treatment will focus on releasing the built-up tension in your neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Ongoing Treatment:

Most clients with forward head posture need a series of treatments to fully address the accumulated tension. Typically, I recommend starting with weekly sessions for 3-4 weeks, then spacing them out as your symptoms improve.

Long-term Results:

With consistent treatment and attention to posture habits, most clients experience a significant reduction in shoulder tension, fewer headaches, and improved neck mobility within 4-6 weeks.

Self-Care Exercises - You Can Start Today

While professional treatment addresses the deep muscle tension, these exercises can help support your recovery:

Chin Tucks

Gently draw your chin back, creating a "double chin." Hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 times daily.

Doorway Chest Stretch

Stand in a doorway with your forearm against the frame. Step forward until you feel a stretch across your chest. Hold 30 seconds on each side.

Upper Trap Stretch

Tilt your head toward one shoulder while the opposite hand reaches toward the floor. Hold 30 seconds on each side.

Back view of woman in teal shirt and black shorts standing in doorway, touching wall with their forearm, doing a chest stretch
Tracey Cross Remedial Massage Therapist located in Wembley Perth, smiling face on with dark hair and light skin, wearing a light green blouse with a V-neck, standing against a plain light background.

Why Choose Tracey Cross for Forward Head Posture Treatment?

18 Years of Experience

I've been helping Wembley locals and Perth residents overcome chronic pain patterns for nearly two decades.

Specialised Expertise

I specialise in treating shoulder tension, neck pain, and headaches – the exact symptoms caused by forward head posture.

Personalised Care

Every treatment is tailored to your specific needs and pain patterns. I take time to understand your unique situation and create a treatment plan that works for you.

Convenient Wembley Location

My clinic is easily accessible from Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, and surrounding Perth suburbs.

Book Your Forward Head Posture Treatment in Wembley

Don't let forward head posture continue to impact your quality of life. The tension, pain, and headaches you're experiencing can be addressed with the right treatment approach.

Ready to find relief? I have appointments available at my Wembley clinic. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free shoulders and neck.

Clinic Location: Salvado Road, Wembley, opposite the Subiaco Bunnings

Serving: Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, Jolimont, City Beach, Floreat and surrounding Perth suburbs

Book your remedial massage