Mrs Y, a housewife and new mother of a six-month-old daughter presented to her Chiropractic Clinic late August 2003. She complained of a constant dull ache between the shoulder blades which would often worsen to a sharp, stabbing pain an hour or so later after feeding time. She noted that working as a secretary, before the birth of her daughter, sitting at a PC all day could often bring on similar symptoms.

An examination of the spine showed a rounding of the shoulders with the head carried too far forward. This posture occurred to try and avoid the pain of very tight muscles and restricted joint movement between the shoulder blades. The reason this all happened in the first place was from Mrs Y holding herself in an awkward position during feeding times (which can be often longer than expected and also require other necessary baby care procedures!). Chronic postural problems often result from people who work in desk-bound environments.

Treatment consisted of adjusting the joints in the spine between the shoulder blades, muscle relaxation techniques and advice on posture while with the baby and during other daily activities.

Mrs Y felt much improved by the third treatment and is continuing care by visiting her Chiropractic Clinic every four months for a check-up.