Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is the most common faulty posture encountered in clinical settings, especially in patients with neck disorders, thoracic outlet syndrome and cervical spondylogenic changes. Standing and sitting positions are used to assess this posture, yet the effect of body position on measurements of this posture has not been studied. Purpose: To investigate the effect of different body positions on measurements of FHP. Participants: Fifty asymptomatic male subjects. Method: FHP severity was assessed by measuring the craniovertebral (CVA) and gaze angles, using the photogrammetric method. Photos were taken from standing, sitting and supine lying positions while the head was relaxed and erect. Results: No significant differences were found in CVA and gaze angles when measured from standing and sitting positions (P>0.05). However, the two angles were significantly different when measured from supine lying compared to the two other positions (P<0.05). Conclusion: Standing and sitting positions can be used interchangeably to assess FHP. This is not true when comparing standing and sitting positions with supine lying position

Issued also as CD