High Intensity Laser Therapy Versus Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Ventilatory Function in Forward Head Posture

High Intensity Laser Therapy Versus Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Ventilatory Function in Forward Head Posture

The purpose of the study is to compare between the efficacy of high intensity LASER therapy and scapular stabilization exercises on ventilatory functions in forward head posture patients

Neck pain is a common complaint in the population, with a considerable impact on individuals and their families, communities, health-care systems and businesses. The estimated 1-year incidence of neck pain ranges between 10.4 and 21.3%, and the overall prevalence of neck pain in general population can be as high as 86.8%.

The photothermic and the photochemical effects of high intensity LASER therapy may increase blood flow and stimulate collagen production within tendons; in addition, high intensity LASER therapy may increase vascular permeability and has an anti-inflammatory effect, thus removing the pain stimulus.

Scapular stabilization exercise is used as an effective way to recover the imbalance in posture and the muscles. It is also effective in increasing muscle activation in the serratus anterior and lower trapezius, through decreasing the compensatory movement, which is caused by the forward head posture, and in decreasing muscle activation on the upper trapezius. Furthermore, it brings about a spinal curve change and upper crossed syndrome improvement.

Therefore, this study will compare the difference between the effect of high intensity laser therapy and scapular stabilization as a modality of treatment on ventilatory function in forward head posture patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Their ages ranged from 30 -40 years.
2. All patients were diagnosed with forward head posture. - Diagnostic criteria for forward head posture by craniovertebral angle that detected by radiography and was less than 49° using specific goniometer.
3. Patients with abnormal values of decreased Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, MVV and TLC due to forward head posture.
4. All patients are medically and psychologically stable
5. They had a score more than 40% at neck disability index.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who had congenital anomalies in the neck and the thoracic cage.
2. Patients with pulmonary diseases (with restrictive lung disease or with obstructive lung disease).
3. Patients with BMI > 30 kg/m2.
4. patients with Contraindications for HILT: malignancies and potential precancerous growths, patients with cochlear implants, endocrine glands disease, patients with febrile conditions, epilepsy, pregnancy, freckles or tattoos, photosensitive medication.
5. Uncontrolled diabetes.