Prevalence and Levels of Forward Head Posture among School Going Children

Abstract

Introduction: Exposure of overloaded bag packs and early usage of digital gadgets amongst school going children alters the cervical spine posture. The present research work intends to study the prevalence of forward head posture in school going children. The study also elucidates the ranges to consider for mild, moderate and severe forward head posture prevalence. Methods: A total of 100 school students (50 males and 50 females) were recruited for cross-sectional study. Assessment of forward head posture was done using plumb line. The students were made to stand at a point marked 25 cm distance away from the plumb line. The researcher, from the side view, using a meter scale, measured the distance between the tragus of the ear and plumb line and record it. The weight of the school bag was measured using the weighing machine and the time for which gadgets were used was recorded as per the subject/parents feedback. Results: The mean values for age, height, weight and BMI are 13.67 ± 0.55 years, 158.56 ± 7.71 cms, 46.47 ± 10.50 kgs and 18.40 ± 3.48 kg /m2 respectively. The mean values for gadgets time use, distance plumb line and weight bag are 130.50 ± 67.07 min, 1.96 ± 1.19 cm and 4.32 ± 1.70 kgs respectively. About ~27% children having mild or no FHP (less than or equal to 1 cm), ~37% children having moderate FHP (ranging between 1.01 cm to 2.49 cm) and ~36% children found to have severe FHP (more than or equal to 2.5 cm). Conclusion: The study showed that the FHP is developing at early stage in the school going children and it has the potential of altering cervical spine biomechanics. Early screening is much essential aspect to prevent FHP. The ergonomic based awareness programs should be organized to sensitize children about the right posture and to indulge them in physical activity.