Effect of Posture and Breathing Exercises in Forward Head Posture

Effects of Posture Exercises With and Without Breathing Exercises in Forward Head Posture

This study aims to compare the effects of postural exercises with and without breathing exercises in the subjects having forward head posture.

Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural deviation that can occur in individuals of various age groups, spanning from childhood to old age. It manifests as an anterior positioning of the head in relation to the neck in the sagittal plane. . FHP is commonly associated with the excessive extension of the upper cervical spine (C1-C3) and flexion of the lower cervical spine (C4-C7). A common method to diagnose forward head posture is by measuring craniovertebral angle i.e. if CVA<49 than FHP is positive. In many cases faulty postures are linked with different musculoskeletal conditions as well as breathing difficulties. Forward head posture specifically impairs the mobility and functionality of the diaphragm, resulting in inefficient contraction of abdominal muscles and reduced lung capacity. A randomized clinical trial will be conducted so that we can rule out proper treatment protocol for forward head posture.

For this randomized clinical trial, 36 participants having forward head posture will be recruited from Sehat medical complex and shalamar hospitals Lahore by nonprobability convenient sampling. Participants will divide in two groups A and B by randomization. Group A will be given both exercise regimes of postural exercises and breathing exercises while group B will be given with only postural exercise protocol. Pain, ROM and craniovertebral angle will be assessment before the treatment start, after 5 weeks and at the end of treatment after 10 weeks. After the collection of data in 8 months, Statistical analysis using SPSS version 21, will be done to summarize the results.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with 20 to 35 years of age, both male and female
• Individuals with CVA <49.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of Surgery of thorax or spine or both.
• Traumatic neck injury.
• Acute or chronic neuro-muscular pain.
• Clinical deformity present in thoracic cage or spine