The Effect of Different Exercises on Craniovertebral Angle in Individuals With Forward Head Posture

Summary

Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural misalignment commonly attributed to prolonged exposure to poor ergonomic conditions and insufficient physical activity. This condition adversely affects craniovertebral angle (CVA), cervical muscle activity, and upper extremity function, ultimately compromising overall physical health and quality of life. Current literature highlights the corrective effects of McKenzie exercises on postural awareness and cervical alignment, while standard neck exercises are frequently employed to address muscular imbalances and alleviate posture-related pain and functional limitations. However, studies that directly compare these two exercise approaches in individuals with FHP particularly in terms of their short-term effects on craniovertebral angle, hand grip strength, and psychosocial outcomes remain scarce. Accordingly, the present study aims to fill this critical gap by conducting a multidimensional analysis of the immediate effects of McKenzie versus standard neck exercise programs in individuals with FHP, thereby contributing meaningful insights to clinical rehabilitation practices.

Conditions

• Forward Head Posture

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

McKenzie Exercise

Exercises will be performed in seated or supine positions, 15 repetitions per session, twice daily, for a total duration of 6 weeks. The program will begin with physiotherapist-supervised sessions and continue at home with guidance via a digital training manual. Weekly follow-up and progress will be ensured through individual exercise diaries. Participants missing two consecutive days of exercise will be excluded from the study. Includes: * Cervical retraction in sitting and supine positions * Cervical rotation to both sides * Lateral flexion of the neck * Combined chin rotation toward the shoulder

BEHAVIORAL

Standard Neck Exercise

The protocol includes chin tucks, chin drop stretches, scapular retraction with resistance, and both unilateral and bilateral pectoral stretching. Exercises will be performed twice daily, 15 repetitions per session, over a period of 6 weeks. Exercise progression will be adapted biweekly based on participant tolerance. Includes: * Chin tucks in supine with progressive hold durations * Chin drop stretch in sitting with optional manual assistance * Scapular retraction using theraband or weights * Pectoral muscle stretching using doorway and seated techniques

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Bahçeşehir University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Pelin Pişirici, PhD · Bahcesehir University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy

• Esra Beceni, PhD Student · Bahcesehir University, Graduate Education Institute

• Büşra Tamgüç, PhD Student · Bahcesehir University, Graduate Education Institute

• Gülay Yalcin, PhD · Mudanya University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

30 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-04-16

Primary Completion

2025-10-16

Completion

2025-12-16

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations