Posture Correction Exercises for Forward Head Posture in Chronic Smartphone and Laptop Users

Official title

Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Posture Correction Exercises for Forward Head Posture in Chronic Smartphones and Laptop Users.

Overview

This study aims to compare different posture correction exercises to see which is most effective in improving forward head posture (FHP) in people who frequently use smartphones and laptops. FHP occurs when the head leans forward, putting extra strain on the neck and shoulders, leading to discomfort and pain. With the increasing use of digital devices, many individuals experience posture-related issues without realizing their long-term effects. This study will assess the impact of specific exercises, such as chin tucks and neck isometric holds, in realigning the head and relieving discomfort. The research will involve 56 participants aged 18-40 who use their devices for at least 2-3 hours daily. Participants will perform targeted exercises over four weeks, and improvements in posture and pain levels will be measured using a standardized scale. The study aims to determine whether structured posture correction exercises can help alleviate FHP and improve overall well-being in frequent digital device users.

Detailed description

This study focuses on understanding and improving Forward Head Posture (FHP), a common problem seen in people who frequently use smartphones and laptops. FHP occurs when the head moves forward beyond its natural alignment, causing excessive strain on the neck, shoulders, and upper back. It can lead to pain, stiffness, headaches, and long-term postural problems. With the increasing use of digital devices, more people-especially young adults-are experiencing FHP without realizing its impact on their health. This study aims to compare different posture correction exercises to determine which is most effective in reducing FHP and associated discomfort. People often use smartphones and laptops for long hours without paying attention to their posture. Research shows that prolonged device use can cause poor posture habits, leading to musculoskeletal issues over time. If left untreated, FHP can contribute to chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term spinal problems. This study is important because it will help identify simple exercise-based solutions that can improve posture and reduce discomfort. The findings can benefit smartphone and laptop users by promoting awareness and encouraging healthy posture habits.

Interventions

• Other Posture Correction Exercises
  This intervention focuses on improving forward head posture (FHP) through a series of corrective exercises aimed at enhancing cervical alignment, reducing muscle strain, and reinforcing proper posture habits. The exercises include chin tucks, cervical retraction with resistance bands, shoulder blade squeeze, and wall posture alignment. Participants will receive hot pack therapy (15-20 mins) for cervical muscle relaxation and TENS (10 mins) for pain relief before and after exercises. These exerci
• Other Strengthening and Stretching Exercises
  This intervention aims to address muscle imbalances associated with forward head posture (FHP) by incorporating stretching of tight muscles (upper trapezius, levator scapulae) and strengthening of weak postural muscles (deep neck flexors, scapular stabilizers). The exercises include upper trapezius stretch, levator scapulae stretch, deep neck flexor strengthening, and scapular retraction with resistance bands. Participants will undergo hot pack therapy (15-20 mins) for cervical muscle relaxation

Primary outcome measures

• Improvement in Cervical Range of Motion (ROM) [Time frame: 6 Months]

Secondary outcome measures (1)

• Neck Pain Intensity [Time frame: 6months]

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion criteria

• Participants falling in this category would be recruited into the study.
• Demographic criteria; age from 18-40 years both male \& female.
• Smartphone usage for minimum of 2-3 hours daily from last one year
• Willingness to participate.
• No previous treatment for forward head posture.

Exclusion criteria

• Participants who fall in this category would be excluded of the study.
• Spinal deformities
• Spinal injuries
• Existing neurological conditions
• Pregnancy due to possible posture changes.

Criteria are shown verbatim from the registry (in English). Final eligibility is always assessed by the study center.

Healthy volunteers: Yes

Study design

Allocation

Randomized

Model

Single group

Masking

Single blind

Primary purpose

Health services research

Study locations

Pakistan · 1 center

• Riphah international University Malakand Campus — Malakand

Identifiers

NCT: NCT06864780 · REC/01008-Hafsa Rahim

Primary sources (government registries)

• ClinicalTrials.gov (US NIH)

View this study on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗