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NCT Number: NCT06864780

Posture Correction Exercises for Forward Head Posture in Chronic Smartphone and Laptop Users

This study aims to compare different posture correction exercises to see which is most effective in improving forward head posture (FHP) in people who frequently use smartphones and laptops. FHP occurs when the head leans forward, putting extra strain on the neck and shoulders, leading to discomfort and pain. With the increasing use of digital devices, many individuals experience posture-related issues without realizing their long-term effects. This study will assess the impact of specific exercises, such as chin tucks and neck isometric holds, in realigning the head and relieving discomfort. The research will involve 56 participants aged 18-40 who use their devices for at least 2-3 hours daily. Participants will perform targeted exercises over four weeks, and improvements in posture and pain levels will be measured using a standardized scale. The study aims to determine whether structured posture correction exercises can help alleviate FHP and improve overall well-being in frequent digital device users.

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Key information

Conditions

Forward Head Posture

Age range

18 year–40 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

About this study

This study focuses on understanding and improving Forward Head Posture (FHP), a common problem seen in people who frequently use smartphones and laptops. FHP occurs when the head moves forward beyond its natural alignment, causing excessive strain on the neck, shoulders, and upper back. It can lead to pain, stiffness, headaches, and long-term postural problems. With the increasing use of digital devices, more people-especially young adults-are experiencing FHP without realizing its impact on their health. This study aims to compare different posture correction exercises to determine which is most effective in reducing FHP and associated discomfort. People often use smartphones and laptops for long hours without paying attention to their posture. Research shows that prolonged device use can cause poor posture habits, leading to musculoskeletal issues over time. If left untreated, FHP can contribute to chronic neck pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term spinal problems. This study is important because it will help identify simple exercise-based solutions that can improve posture and reduce discomfort. The findings can benefit smartphone and laptop users by promoting awareness and encouraging healthy posture habits.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Participants falling in this category would be recruited into the study.
  • Demographic criteria; age from 18-40 years both male & female.
  • Smartphone usage for minimum of 2-3 hours daily from last one year
  • Willingness to participate.
  • No previous treatment for forward head posture.

Exclusion criteria

  • Participants who fall in this category would be excluded of the study.
  • Spinal deformities
  • Spinal injuries
  • Existing neurological conditions
  • Pregnancy due to possible posture changes.

Treatment and study plan

posture correction exercises

Other

This intervention focuses on improving forward head posture (FHP) through a series of corrective exercises aimed at enhancing cervical alignment, reducing muscle strain, and reinforcing proper posture habits. The exercises include chin tucks, cervical retraction with resistance bands, shoulder blade squeeze, and wall posture alignment. Participants will receive hot pack therapy (15-20 mins) for cervical muscle relaxation and TENS (10 mins) for pain relief before and after exercises. These exercises target deep cervical flexors and postural stabilizers to help retrain the neck and upper back muscles, promoting long-term postural correction. The intervention will be performed 3 times per week for 6 weeks under supervision, with a focus on maintaining correct postural alignment during daily activities.

Other names: Hot Pack (15-20 min) & TENS (10 min) for relaxation and pain relief, followed by corrective exercises to improve cervical alignment and posture

strengthening and stretching exercises

Other

This intervention aims to address muscle imbalances associated with forward head posture (FHP) by incorporating stretching of tight muscles (upper trapezius, levator scapulae) and strengthening of weak postural muscles (deep neck flexors, scapular stabilizers). The exercises include upper trapezius stretch, levator scapulae stretch, deep neck flexor strengthening, and scapular retraction with resistance bands. Participants will undergo hot pack therapy (15-20 mins) for cervical muscle relaxation and TENS (10 mins) for pain relief before and after exercises. The stretching exercises will help release tension in overactive muscles, while strengthening exercises will restore muscular balance, improving posture and reducing neck discomfort. The intervention will be conducted 3 times per week for 6 weeks with supervised sessions to ensure proper technique and progressive improvement in flexibility and strength.

Other names: Hot Pack (15-20 min) & TENS (10 min) for relaxation and pain relief, followed by stretching tight muscles and strengthening weak postural muscles.

Primary outcomes

  1. Improvement in Cervical Range of Motion (ROM)

    Time frame: 6 Months

    Cervical Posture Improvement:

    Measured using craniovertebral angle (CVA) via digital photogrammetry to assess forward head posture correction.

    An increased CVA indicates an improvement in head and neck alignment.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Neck Pain Intensity

    Time frame: 6months

    Evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain intensity before and after the intervention.

    A decrease in VAS score signifies reduced discomfort and muscle strain.

Other outcomes

  1. Muscle Activation & Endurance

    Time frame: 6 months

    Assessed using the Deep Neck Flexor Endurance Test (DNFET) to measure the strength and endurance of deep cervical flexor muscles.

    Increased holding time in seconds reflects enhanced muscle activation.

Study contacts

Contact information is provided by the study sponsor or research team.

Dr.Nadeem Ahmad, MS

CONTACT

[email protected]

03451915105

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Riphah International University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Posture Correction Exercises for Forward Head Posture in Chronic Smartphones and Laptop Users.

Acronym: Comparative

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
Mar 7, 2025
Registry last updated
Sep 3, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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