Cervical Position Sense, Core Stability, and Postural Balance in University Students With Upper Crossed Syndrome

NCT07577492 · Status: RECRUITING · Type: OBSERVATIONAL · Enrollment: 48

Last updated 2026-05-19

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

This study aims to investigate the relationship between cervical position sense, core stabilization, and postural balance in university students aged 18-30 years with Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS). Upper Crossed Syndrome is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by muscle imbalance, including weakness of the deep cervical flexors, middle and lower trapezius, rhomboids, and serratus anterior, along with tightness of the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, sternocleidomastoid, and pectoralis major and minor. This condition frequently affects university students due to prolonged sitting, extensive computer use, and poor posture. While previous research has focused on discrete components of UCS such as posture correction or pain management, the combined effects of cervical proprioception, core stability, and postural balance remain poorly understood. A total of 48 participants will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups: 24 students diagnosed with Upper Crossed Syndrome and 24 healthy students as a control group. Assessments include cervical joint position error testing, core stabilization endurance tests (Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance Test and Sahrmann Five-Level Core Stability Test), static balance evaluation using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), and dynamic balance assessment using the Y-Balance Test. Pain intensity will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). This study will help identify neuromuscular and sensory mechanisms underlying these parameters and support evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to improve postural alignment, reduce musculoskeletal dysfunction, and enhance overall functional performance in this population.

Conditions

  • Upper Crossed Syndrome

Interventions

OTHER

postural and balance assessment battery

A comprehensive assessment battery including cervical joint position error testing, core stabilization endurance tests (Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance Test and Sahrmann Five-Level Core Stability Test), static balance evaluation using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), dynamic balance assessment using the Y-Balance Test, and pain intensity measurement using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Total assessment time approximately 25-35 minutes.

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • Istinye University

    lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

  • Nalan Soydaş Engin, Phd · Istinye University

Eligibility

Min Age
18 Years
Max Age
30 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2026-04-20
Primary Completion
2026-05-25
Completion
2026-05-30

Countries

  • Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations

More Related Trials

Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT07577492 on ClinicalTrials.gov