National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) Practice Exam

Individuals with rounded shoulders and a forward head posture are commonly identified with upper-extremity movement impairment syndrome. This posture creates a chain reaction affecting the muscles and joints of the upper body, leading to an imbalance that can impair movement and function. Rounded shoulders often result from overactivity in the pectoralis major and minor, along with underactivity in the upper back muscles such as the rhomboids and middle trapezius. The forward head position can lead to neck pain and tension due to altered biomechanics and increased load on the cervical spine.

Correctly identifying these characteristics is important because they highlight the typical muscular patterns associated with dysfunction in the upper body. Addressing these issues through corrective exercises can help restore balance, improve posture, and enhance functional movement. This understanding is crucial for developing effective strategies for clients experiencing upper extremity impairments.