Effects of corrective exercises and postural education on forward head posture- a randomized controlled trial

Forward head posture is a common postural abnormality that can lead to musculoskeletal discomfort and impairments in daily functioning. This study is aimed to investigate the effects of a corrective exercise program and postural education on craniovertebral & shoulder angle, pain and quality of life in individuals with forward head posture. A baseline and post-intervention design were employed, and participants were included on the basis of their CVA and SA angles (≤ 50° and ≤ 52°) respectively. A total number of forty-six (n=46), (n=25 female; n=21 male) participants completed this study. Participants were randomly divided into three groups, a corrective exercise group (CE=17), a postural education group (PE=17) and a control group (CG=12). Measurements of craniovertebral angle and shoulder angles were done using photogrammetry, and self-reported pain levels and quality of life were obtained at baseline and following 6-week after the program. Participants were given comprehensive instructions about the study. CE group performed FHP corrective exercises in the form of stretching and strengthening exercises. Also, PE group followed postural guidelines and CG were given no treatment. After 6 weeks, significant increases were observed within the group comparisons for CVA (P=0.001), SA (P=0.005) and pain (P=0.001) in CE and PE groups while CG showed increase in CVA (P=0.001) and NPRS (P=0.002) but not in SA (P>0.05). Pre- and Post-measurement of quality of life (SF-36) showed no significant differences (P>0.05) except the physical functioning component for all groups (P<0.05). In conclusion, tailored corrective exercise program that utilizes different positions for the same exercises and postural awareness has been found to be effective. Thus, this program is effective in terms of improving forward head posture.