EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE ON DEVICE SPECIFIC RESPONSE TO POSTURE CORRECTION EXERCISES

Abstract

Background: Abnormal head posture specifically forward Head Posture, commonly assessed via the Craniovertebral Angle (CVA), is a prevalent postural dysfunction linked to prolonged smartphone and laptop use, often resulting in neck pain and disability. Objective: This study compared the effectiveness of posture correction exercises versus strengthening/stretching exercises on CVA, neck pain, disability, and deep neck flexor endurance in device users. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 58 university students with FHP were allocated to Group A (posture correction exercises, n=29) or Group B (strengthening/stretching exercises, n=29). Both groups performed supervised sessions three times weekly for six weeks. Outcomes (CVA, pain, disability, endurance) were measured at baseline, week 3, and week 6. Results: Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05). Both interventions produced statistically significant improvements across all outcome variables over time. However, Group A demonstrated a markedly greater enhancement in craniovertebral angle at both the mid-intervention and post-intervention assessments compared to Group B (p < 0.05), indicating superior correction of forward head posture. Significant reductions in neck pain intensity and neck disability were observed in both groups, although the magnitude of improvement was consistently higher in Group A (p < 0.05). Deep neck flexor endurance also improved significantly in both groups, with Group A showing a more pronounced increase. Conclusion: Posture correction exercises demonstrated superior outcomes, particularly in improving craniovertebral angle and functional measures. However, both posture correction exercises and strengthening and stretching exercises are effective in improving forward head posture, reducing neck pain, decreasing disability, and enhancing deep neck flexor endurance among smartphone and laptop users. These findings support the use of posture-focused motor control exercises as a preferred intervention for managing forward head posture in young adult digital device users.