Which muscle is weak in upper cross syndrome?

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Upper cross syndrome features an imbalance where deep neck flexors and lower scapular stabilizers are underactive, while the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and pectoral muscles are overactive and tight. The deep cervical flexors normally provide stability and control at the front of the neck; when they are weak, the neck loses stability and the head tends to protract forward, reinforcing the postural pattern. This is why the cervical flexors are the weak link in this syndrome. The other muscles listed are typically tight and overactive in this pattern, contributing to forward head posture and rounded shoulders rather than weakness.