INTRODUCTION
Neck hump or buffalo hump is the condition when there is fat deposition on the back of the neck. It gives a hump-like look to your neck, hence the name.
CAUSES
- Genetics: Genetics can play a vital role in your overall fat metabolism and the reason fat accumulation
- Lifestyle: Sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, smoking.
- Obesity
- Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal imbalance affects fat metabolism leading to obesity. Examples are cortisol, thyroid hormone, etc.
- Underlying causes: Cushing syndrome, Madelung’s disease
- Stress: It can also be a cause of deranged fat metabolism and fat accumulation
- Tumors: Certain pituitary gland tumors can also cause fat accumulation in the back of the neck.
- Medications: Corticosteroid abuse can also lead to neck hump.
UNDERLYING RISK FACTORS
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Hypothyroidism
- Depression
- Stroke
- Osteoporosis
- High cortisol levels
- Scoliosis
MANAGEMENT OF NECK HUMP
Medication
In the case of neck hump caused by medication such as corticosteroids, the medicine must be altered. Finding better options will help correct your posture and fat in the back of the neck.
In the case of conditions such as Cushing syndrome, proper medication for the cause is needed to cure the condition and correct the neck fat.
Pituitary tumors need chemotherapy and radiation therapy to cure the condition.
Diet Management
- Calorie deficit diet
- Avoid high-calorie foods
- Include whole foods in the diet
- Include lean meat in the diet
- Avoid saturated or trans fats
- Include more protein in the diet
- Avoid processed food
- Include fiber-rich food in the diet
Lifestyle changes
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Avoid smoking
- Opt for an active lifestyle
- Do not starve yourself
- Have a proper routine for life
- Do not skip medication for any underlying diseases
- Periodic checkups and doctor visits
- Stress management
Target exercises
There are no single-point fat reduction exercises. Including the following exercises in your daily exercise routine will help in toning up the body.
- Neck tilts
- Neck turns
- Isometric neck exercises
- Sitting twists
- Neck stretches
- Cobra stretches
- Chin tucks
Surgical methods
- Neck lift surgery
- Neck liposuction
SUMMARY
Neck hump or buffalo hump is the condition when there is fat deposition on the back of the neck. It gives a hump-like look to your neck, hence the name. The underlying cause of the neck hup must be treated to get rid of neck fat.
