The Effect of Different Exercises on Craniovertebral Angle in Individuals With Forward Head Posture (NCT06947421) | Clinical Trial Compass
Active — Not RecruitingNot Applicable
The Effect of Different Exercises on Craniovertebral Angle in Individuals With Forward Head Posture
Turkey (Türkiye)44 participantsStarted 2025-04-16
Plain-language summary
Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural misalignment commonly attributed to prolonged exposure to poor ergonomic conditions and insufficient physical activity. This condition adversely affects craniovertebral angle (CVA), cervical muscle activity, and upper extremity function, ultimately compromising overall physical health and quality of life. Current literature highlights the corrective effects of McKenzie exercises on postural awareness and cervical alignment, while standard neck exercises are frequently employed to address muscular imbalances and alleviate posture-related pain and functional limitations. However, studies that directly compare these two exercise approaches in individuals with FHP particularly in terms of their short-term effects on craniovertebral angle, hand grip strength, and psychosocial outcomes remain scarce. Accordingly, the present study aims to fill this critical gap by conducting a multidimensional analysis of the immediate effects of McKenzie versus standard neck exercise programs in individuals with FHP, thereby contributing meaningful insights to clinical rehabilitation practices.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 30 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Individuals diagnosed with forward head posture, defined by a craniovertebral angle (CVA) of less than 50°, based on established diagnostic criteria
* Age between 18 and 30 years
* Pain intensity greater than 3 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
* Mild to moderate neck disability, indicated by a Neck Disability Index (NDI) score below 15 out of 50
* Voluntary participation with signed informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of medical contraindications to exercise
* Regular engagement in structured spinal exercise programs
* History of spinal surgery
* Diagnosis of cancer or other malignant conditions
* Presence of an implanted cardiac pacemaker
* Visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments that would prevent adherence to the exercise protocol
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
1.Craniovertebral Angle (CVA)
Timeframe: through study completion, an average of 6 months