Question
Hi, im 19 and Ive never had this problem before I started weightlifting. I have always been a heavy computer and cell phone user so I have bad posture when creates a lot of tension in my neck and back of head. But for a few months now I have been expericening more neck tightness.

When I exercise I feel like my neck and back of head are in a vice grip, and I start feeling the arteries in my neck pulsing. Pretty much anything that creates more blood flow to my head I can feel. I have had a stress test, ekg, echo, and normal blood pressure. Could a neck injury or tension cause the pulsing in my neck when exercising? Also does it sound like Thorasic outlet syndrome?

Answer
Dear Josh,

From what you are telling me, this doesn't sound like thoracic outlet syndrome.  If you are suspecting a vascular/circulation issue, you should consult a cardiovascular specialist.

Have you had an MRA of the brain to look at the vascular structures in head and neck?

This could simply be a benign problem, but you should always rule out the potentially more severe.

Are you on any medications?  Are you taking any steroids or other substances in order to enhance your workouts?

All of these things should be taken into consideration.

When everything is ruled out, you could consider neck and upper back manipulative therapies to restore neck and upper back function.

Josh... just some thoughts.

Keith Biggs, DC