Gait performance changes after ten cervical retractions

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Students are prone to spine overloading, as they often spend prolonged periods in unfavorable postures. They tend to struggle with balancing study time and leisure physical activity. The head and neck regions are particularly rich in proprioceptors. Prolonged forward head posture (protraction) can lead to balance disturbances. This, in turn, affects gait and overall body posture. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a series of corrective active head exercises on gait, a fundamental form of movement, in a group of healthy university students. Material and Methods. Gait patterns were assessed in 10 healthy male full-time students with an average age of 22.8 years (SD = 1.1). The assessment was based on the regional distribution of plantar pressure across two measurement sessions. One session was conducted before, and one after performing 10 active head retractions. Gait changes were analyzed in ten foot regions for 200 steps of each participant. Results. After 10 cervical retractions, a decrease in pressure, ground reaction force, contact time, and area values was observed in the 1st metatarsal head (1MTH). Conversely, an increase in these quantities was found in the toes. Additionally, there was a tendency toward a decrease in the contact area of the heel and 3rd metatarsal head (3MTH), along with increased contact time in the midfoot. Performing 10 neck retractions altered gait by inducing heel supination. It also increased hallux involvement in propulsion and widened the base of toe support. Conclusions. Even a few movements that correct head protraction have an immediate effect on whole-body movement. This effect suggests potential benefits of incorporating neck retractions into physical education programs for students. Even when time-consuming forms of regular exercise are not feasible, performing just a few neck-correcting movements can positively impact overall body movement.