Effect of Forward Head Posture on Dynamic Balance Based on the Biodex Balance System

Abstract

Forward Head Posture (FHP) results in spine malalignment, muscle imbalance and cervical proprioception sensory input impairment. Subjective description of FHP is interpreted differently by clinicians and therefore the FHP is classified as slight, moderate and sever. This study aimed to evaluate balance disorder in individuals with severe forward head posture (FHP). Twenty individuals with severe FHP and 20 controls were enrolled. Dynamic postural stability was assessed in all participants using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) in semi dynamic position with eye open/eye closed conditions. Based on the findings, dynamic postural stability in the sagittal plane was different between the groups (P<0.05). It can be concluded that impairment of dynamic postural stability occurs in individuals with severe FHP. The findings suggest that clinicians take into account the importance of dynamic postural stability assessment in FHP subjects and consider the application of intervention programs for improvement of the dynamic balance.

Two Methods of Forward Head Posture Assessment: Radiography vs. Posture and Their Clinical Comparison

“…Studies have found that there is a significant association between neck pain and forward head posture, with higher risks of having neck pain in female and older populations [3]. It is generally believed that this abnormal posture is associated with the development and persistence of spine pain and various biomechanically driven disorders [4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. For example, researchers have identified that FHP alters the cervical range of motion (ROM) [4], contributes to an abnormal balance [5,6], and alters respiratory efficiency [7].…”

“…It is generally believed that this abnormal posture is associated with the development and persistence of spine pain and various biomechanically driven disorders [4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. For example, researchers have identified that FHP alters the cervical range of motion (ROM) [4], contributes to an abnormal balance [5,6], and alters respiratory efficiency [7]. It has been readily seen in the past decade that there has been a surge in interest in forward head posture in surgical [8,9] and conservative rehabilitation settings alike [3].…”

“…In terms of external measurements of FHP, there are a variety of methods [15,16]. A very common method used is the craniovertebral angle (CVA) [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]16,17]. In reviewing the literature, it becomes apparent that, in the surgical setting, radiographic measurements are favored [8][9][10]13,15], while, in the conservative rehabilitation literature, external postural measurements are emphasized [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]16,17].…”

“…A very common method used is the craniovertebral angle (CVA) [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]16,17]. In reviewing the literature, it becomes apparent that, in the surgical setting, radiographic measurements are favored [8][9][10]13,15], while, in the conservative rehabilitation literature, external postural measurements are emphasized [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]16,17]. However, there are exceptions where some conservative care researchers prefer radiographic methods to assess sagittal cervical alignment [14,[17][18][19].…”

Are Rotations and Translations of Head Posture Related to Gait and Jump Parameters?

“…Understanding an individual's jumping and gait mechanics is crucial, particularly when considering the spinal factors that may affect these parameters. One such factor is head posture, which is proposed to play a significant role in the overall relationship between movement patterns and spinal alignment [8][9][10][11][12][13]. It is plausible that alterations in gait and jump performance are associated with abnormal head posture; this hypothesis stems from the understanding that deviations in head posture can detrimentally affect both postural control and proprioception [9,[14][15][16].…”