Thoracic Expansion vs DNS Exercises in Forward Head Posture (NCT07238660) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Thoracic Expansion vs DNS Exercises in Forward Head Posture
Turkey (Türkiye)32 participantsStarted 2025-12-01
Plain-language summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of thoracic expansion exercises and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) on respiratory function and bilateral trapezius muscle activity in individuals with forward head posture (FHP). A total of 32 participants aged 18-40 years with a craniovertebral angle (CVA) of less than 53° will be randomly assigned to either the DNS group or the thoracic expansion exercise group. Primary outcomes include respiratory function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), trapezius muscle activation measured with EMG biofeedback, and craniovertebral angle. Secondary outcomes include thoracic mobility and health-related quality of life assessed using the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire. Both interventions will be applied for 6 weeks. The study aims to determine which approach provides greater improvement in posture-related respiratory dysfunction and muscle activation.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 40 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:
* Adults aged 18 to 40 years.
* Craniovertebral angle (CVA \< 53°) indicating forward head posture.
* Able to perform exercise-based interventions.
* Voluntarily agrees to participate and signs the informed consent form.
* No neurological, orthopedic, systemic, or cardiopulmonary conditions that would limit participation.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Contraindications to exercise (e.g., acute musculoskeletal injury, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease).
* Chronic upper respiratory tract disease that may affect spirometry results. Presence of a cardiac pacemaker.
* Neurological disorders, systemic diseases, or mental impairments that could interfere with exercise cooperation.
* History of orthopedic or musculoskeletal surgery affecting mobility or posture.
* Currently participating in respiratory exercises, spinal stabilization training, or structured exercise programs.
* Engagement in professional sports or intensive physical training that may affect baseline neuromuscular measurements.
* Failure to comply with the exercise program (e.g., missing 3 consecutive days of prescribed exercises).
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.