Effect of FHP on TMJ Proprioception in Postmenopausal Women

Effect of Forward Head Posture on Temporomandibular Joint Proprioception in Postmenopausal Women. an Observational Study

anterior protrusion of head in relation to the trunk; It has a high prevalence among old women as increased age is associated with a reduced cervical range of motion (ROM), greater thoracic kyphosis which is associated with greater cervical flexion and greater forward head posture accompanying with greater deficits in cervical ROM of flexion and rotation. So, the aim of the study is to determine the effect of forward head posture on temporomandibular joint proprioception in postmenopausal women

A convenient sample of 100 postmenopausal women will be participated in this study; they are divided into 2 groups according to their cranio-vertebral angle (CVA). The FHP group will be consisted of 50 women, suffer from FHP (CVA was less than 48°). The control group will be consisted of 50 women, are free from FHP (CVA more than 48°).

The participants will be recruited from Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University and Faculty of Physical Therapy, MUST University. Informed consent will be obtained from each participant after explaining the nature, purpose, and benefits of the study, informing them of their right to refuse or withdraw at any time, and about the confidentiality of any obtained information.

Inclusion Criteria:

• postmenopausal women
• their age will range from 50 to 60 years
• their body mass index (BMI) will range from 25 to 28 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• any identified or acquired dental defects
• existing dental prosthesis use, visual, voice and hearing disabilities
• facial paralysis
• orofacial, neck or shoulder fractures or procedures
• fixed or mobile spinal deformity
• headache
• migraine
• any vestibular or neurological condition that may impair TMJ proprioception.