The relation between forward head posture and active sagittal cervical range of motion in undergraduates
Open Access
Journal Type:Research Article
Subject Field:Clinical and Developmental Anatomy
Downloads:335
Publish Date:May 28, 2025 8:00 pm
Views:359
Volume:173, Issue: 1, May, 2025
Subject:Medicine, Health & Food
Pages:1191-1196
Abstract
Undergraduates daily routines often involve prolonged sitting during lectures, seminars, and study sessions, potentially leading to postural disorders. Sustained improper posture can result in forward head posture (FHP), particularly in sedentary situations where individuals frequently maintain static positions for extended periods.This study investigated the relationship between FHP and active sagittal cervical range of motion (ROM) in undergraduates. An active sagittal cervical ROM assessment was conducted on undergraduate participants exhibiting a craniovertebral angle (CVA) of less than 48 degrees. Forty-nine volunteers aged 18 to 21 years participated. FHP was assessed using CVA measurements. Volunteers with a CVA greater than 48 degrees were excluded. Cervical flexion and extension were assessed using a goniometer. Each measurement was conducted twice to ensure accuracy, and the mean of the two measurements was calculated. The mean CVA was 40.24 ± 4.013 degrees, the total sagittal cervical ROM was 84.26 ± 9.993 degrees, and the mean values for cervical flexion and extension were 25.38 ± 4.101 degrees and 58.87 ± 8.464 degrees, respectively. A Spearman correlation test indicated a decreased craniovertebral angle correlated with a reduced sagittal cervical range of motion in undergraduates (r = 0.41, p = 0.003). These results indicate a positive relationship between FHP and active sagittal cervical range of motion in undergraduates.