Module 4: Head and Neck Myofascial Syndromes
Exploring fascia-related disorders of the cervical spine, head, and jaw
Course Overview
In this module, we examine common head and neck disorders from a fascia-oriented perspective. We’ll analyze how tension in the cervical fascia can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, jaw pain, trigeminal neuralgia, tinnitus, and vertigo.
Through detailed anatomical review, clinical demonstrations, and diagnostic strategies, you will learn to identify fascial patterns and develop precise treatment plans targeting cervical-origin myofascial syndromes.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the fascial anatomy of the cervical spine, jaw, and suboccipital region.
- Identify how cervical fascia contributes to head and facial pain syndromes.
- Analyze key fascial chains and their role in referred symptoms like tinnitus and vertigo.
- Recognize trigger points and fibrotic patterns specific to head and neck fascia.
- Design targeted treatment strategies using fascia-based palpation and point selection.
4.1 – Introduction to Cervical-Origin Syndromes/ 颈源性综合征导论
Overview of fascia-related syndromes originating from the neck. Learn to recognize non-obvious symptoms such as dizziness, hand numbness, or facial pain as possible cervical-fascial issues.
4.2 – Cervical Biomechanics & Posture/ 颈椎生物力学与姿势分析
Study the cervical spine’s motion axes and postural influence. Understand how posture affects fascial compensation, spinal curves, and pain generation.
4.3 – Suboccipital Muscles and Dizziness/ 枕下肌群与眩晕机制
Explore how tension in the suboccipital muscles and nearby fascia can compress arteries and proprioceptors, leading to balance issues and vertigo.
4.4 – Vertebral Artery & Sympathetic Chain Tension / 椎动脉与交感链张力
Learn how fascial tightness impacts the vertebral artery and cervical sympathetic trunk, contributing to dizziness, palpitations, and visual disturbances.
4.5 – Temporomandibular Joint & Facial Tension/ 颞颌关节与面部筋膜紧张
Examine TMJ mechanics and surrounding fascia. Identify how chewing, teeth grinding, and jaw misalignment contribute to facial tension and headache patterns.
4.6 – Myofascial Trigger Points in the Neck/ 颈部筋膜触发点
Locate key trigger points in cervical fascia, scalene muscles, and levator scapulae. Learn their referral patterns and release strategies.
4.7 – Fascia and Trigeminal Pain Syndromes/ 筋膜与三叉神经痛综合征
Understand fascial involvement in trigeminal neuralgia, facial numbness, and post-herpetic facial pain. Link cranial base tension with nerve irritation.
4.8 – Headache and Cervical Fascial Tension/ 头痛与颈部筋膜张力
Explore fascial mechanisms behind tension-type headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and pain behind the eyes. Learn how neck treatment can relieve head symptoms.
4.9 – Fascia, Vertigo and Tinnitus/ 筋膜、眩晕与耳鸣
Identify how fascial restrictions in the upper cervical and occipital region contribute to tinnitus, motion sensitivity, and balance disorders.
4.10 – Treatment Planning for Head & Neck Fascia/ 头颈筋膜的治疗规划
Integrate your findings into effective treatment plans. Learn how to sequence fascia release, point selection, and symptom tracking for better outcomes.
How to Learn
This module includes narrated lessons, anatomical animations, and patient-based case studies. Each part builds upon the previous one to deepen your diagnostic ability and refine your manual sensitivity.
How to Get Started
- Begin with Part 1 and follow the sequence for an integrated understanding of cervical fascial dynamics.
- Use diagrams and clinical demonstrations to guide your learning.
- Note clinical cases where cervical-origin issues were previously overlooked.
- Be ready to apply these concepts to shoulder and upper limb assessments in Module 5.
Course Highlights
- Clinical Relevance: Targeted to real-world head and neck pain patterns.
- Fascia-First Perspective: Discover how fascia explains "mysterious" symptoms.
- Integrated Approach: Combine postural, neurological, and fascial analysis.
- Precise Planning: Improve treatment effectiveness through clear diagnostic logic.