Effectiveness of Selected Exercise Programme on Cervical Range of Motion in Patients with Thoracic Kyphosis & Forward Head Posture

Abstract

Background: Altered postural behaviours result in Forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis making it amenable to correction. The biomechanical strain, in presence of reduced strength of the core stabilizing musculature, in particular, if it is repeated or prolonged, is the predominant explanation for symptoms associated with forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis i.e., neck pain and reduced cervical range of motion. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare the effect of postural awareness and conventional exercises on the cervical range of motion in patients with thoracic kyphosis and forward head posture. Methodology: This experimental study was conducted on 60 subjects both male and female of age group 20-35yrs. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups consisting of 30 subjects each. Group A received hot pack and postural advice and Group B received hot pack and stretching and strengthening exercises. All the subjects received a total intervention of 4 days (alternate days) per week for 4 weeks. Results: Intra-group significant differences were obtained between pre- and post-treatment for all evaluated variables (p˂0.01) in both groups. The inter-group comparison showed significant differences (p˂0.01) between post-treatment variables of Group A and Group B where, Group B showed greater improvement than Group A. Conclusion: The treatment given to both the groups together can be used to improve cervical range of motion, thoracic kyphosis, and forward head posture. This study may serve as a guideline for physiotherapists when making decisions regarding possible interventions. KEY WORDS: Cervical range of motion, Craniovertebral angle, Forward head posture, Kyphosis index, Neck disability index, Thoracic kyphosis.