Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, Postural Disorders
Conditions
Keywords
Kinesio Taping, Corrective Exercises, Forward Head Posture
Brief summary
Forward head posture (FHP) is a common condition in which the head is positioned forward relative to the body, leading to muscle imbalance, neck pain, and reduced functional performance. It is frequently associated with prolonged poor posture and can negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping and corrective postural exercises in improving forward head posture. A total of 40 participants with forward head posture will be randomly assigned into two groups. One group will receive Kinesio Taping, while the other group will undergo a structured corrective exercise program. The outcomes of this study will include assessment of craniovertebral angle, deep cervical muscle strength, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility. The results are expected to help determine the most effective treatment approach for managing forward head posture and improving patient outcomes.
Detailed description
Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural deviation characterized by anterior displacement of the head relative to the vertical alignment of the body. This condition results in muscular imbalances, including tightness in the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles, along with ضعف in the deep neck flexor muscles. These alterations contribute to neck pain, reduced range of motion, impaired proprioception, and functional limitations. FHP has been associated with various musculoskeletal disorders such as tension-type headaches, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and myofascial pain syndrome. Prolonged poor posture increases mechanical stress on cervical structures, leading to altered movement patterns and decreased neuromuscular control. Several therapeutic interventions have been proposed to manage FHP, including corrective exercises, manual therapy, and physical modalities. Corrective exercise programs typically focus on strengthening deep cervical flexors, improving scapular stability, enhancing thoracic mobility, and promoting proper postural alignment. Conventional treatments may also include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), heat therapy, and cervical isometric exercises. Kinesio Taping (KT) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique widely used in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. It involves applying elastic adhesive tape to the skin to provide support, improve proprioception, reduce pain, and facilitate muscle function without restricting movement. This randomized controlled trial will compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping versus corrective postural exercises in individuals with forward head posture. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group A will receive Kinesio Taping applied to the shoulder region in repeated cycles, while Group B will undergo a structured corrective exercise program three times per week for four weeks. Outcome measures will include craniovertebral angle (CVA) to assess postural alignment, deep neck flexor muscle strength using a pressure biofeedback unit, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility using a cervical range of motion device. These measurements will be recorded before and after the intervention. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians in selecting effective rehabilitation strategies for individuals with forward head posture.
Interventions
OTHERCorrective Postural Exercises
The exercise program includes deep cervical flexor training, scapular stabilization exercises, thoracic extension exercises, postural correction, and manual therapy techniques. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for four weeks, with progressive intensity.
OTHERKinesio Taping
Elastic therapeutic tape will be applied to the shoulder and cervical region to facilitate muscle function, improve proprioception, and reduce strain associated with forward head posture. The application will follow a cycle of 72 hours on and 24 hours off.
Sponsors
Deraya University
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE (Subject)
Masking description
This study is single-blind, where participants are unaware of the group allocation. Each group will be treated at different times and settings to minimize interaction and prevent bias.
Intervention model description
Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. Group A will receive Kinesio Taping, while Group B will receive a structured corrective exercise program. Each group will be treated separately, and outcomes will be compared between groups after the intervention period.
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 40 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* Age between 18 and 40 years * Male and female participants * Body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 24.9 * Presence of forward head posture with craniovertebral angle (CVA) less than 50 degrees
Exclusion criteria
* History of previous neck surgery * Musculoskeletal deformities affecting the neck, shoulder, or spine * Diagnosed cervical spondylosis or other pathological cervical conditions * History of trauma to the neck or shoulder * Presence of neurological disorders * History of cardiothoracic surgery * Open wounds in the neck region * Known allergy to Kinesio tape
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) | Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention | Craniovertebral angle will be measured using a universal goniometer to assess forward head posture. Measurements will be taken three times in a standing position, and the average value will be recorded. A value less than 50 degrees indicates forward head posture. |
| Deep Neck Flexor Muscle Strength | Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention | Deep neck flexor muscle strength will be assessed using a pressure biofeedback unit. Participants will perform controlled head nodding while maintaining pressure at 40 mmHg. The ability to sustain contraction will be recorded. |
| Cervicocephalic Kinesthetic Sensibility | Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention | Cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility will be measured using a Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) device to assess joint position sense and accuracy of head repositioning. |
Countries
Egypt
Outcome results
None listed