Effect of posture correction on blood pressure in persons with Forward Head Posture

Abstract

Objectives. Hypertension is also known as Elevated Blood Pressure in which SBP is equal to 120-129 mm Hg while DBP is equal or less than to 80 mm Hg or if a person taking antihypertensive drugs at any stage of higher BP according to American college of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2017 guidelines The main objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of posture correction on Blood Pressure in persons with Forward Head Posture: A Randomized Control Trial. Materials and methods. 86 patients with a mean age of 56.83±11.40 who had Forward Head Posture and raised blood pressure were randomly assigned to 2 group (N= 43 in each group) Group 1 is experimental group who performed strengthening exercise (Cervical isometrics, Rhomboids and Longus Capitis) and stretching exercises (Trapezius, Scalene, Sternocleidomastoid and Pectoralis Major and minor) 6 repetitions of each exercise, twice per week for 4 weeks). Group 2 is a control which was on antihypertensive drugs for 4 weeks. The outcome measures used was BP using Sphygmomanometer. Patients were assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks of treatment. Outcomes. Of 86 patients, 43 patients who received stretching and strengthening exercise, received intervention twice per week for 4 weeks. There was significant within group effects (p=0.000) for Blood Pressure. The findings obtained by comparing both groups were, SBP & DBP reduced significantly after 4 weeks SBP (MD = 2.86; 95% CI 3.23 to 2.48; p=0.000) DBP (MD = 2.48; 95% CI 2.82 to 2.15; p= 0.000) Conclusions. The efficacy of posture correction in persons with Forward Head Posture is an effective treatment and could considerably decrease the Blood Pressure in Hypertensive patients.