Correlation Between Forward Head Posture and Cervical Radiculopathy

Correlation Between Forward Head Posture and Cervical Radiculopathy in Smart Phone Users

The progression rate of forward head posture has increased because of the increase in postural loads, to which individuals are subjected because of developed technologies including mobile phones, computers, and televisions. Postural abnormality in the upper cervical region has the potential to lead to nerve irritation and cervical radiculopathy. so the purpose of study is to investigate if there is a relationship between forward head posture and cervical radiculopathy in smart phone users.

Cross-sectional observational study . 120 Participants will be recruited from students and employees of Nahda university (smart phone users) from both genders with age ranged between (18-35) years old.

outcomes measurement

1. Photogrammetric method to assess CVA by smart phone application FHP
2. Smartphone application for measuring cervical range of motion
3. Numerical Pain Rating Scale to assess pain intensity
4. Arabic neck disability index for measuring cervical function

Inclusion Criteria:

- 1. Adult subjects aged from 18-35 years old, with FHP using smart phone more than 4 hours per day.

2. Subjects with FHP (craniovertebral angle) [CVA] < 49° 3. Normal body mass index (BMI <25).

Exclusion Criteria:

- 1- Signs of serious pathology (e.g., malignancy, inflammatory disorders, infection).

2- History of cervical spine surgery. 3- History of trauma or fractures in cervical spine. 4- Vascular syndrome such as vertebrobasilar insufficiency.