Characteristics of Cervical Position Sense in Subjects with Forward Head Posture

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of forward head posture (FHP) on proprioception by determining the cervical position-reposition error. [Subjects and Methods] A sample population was divided into two groups in accordance with the craniovertebral angle: the FHP group and the control group. We measured the craniovertebral angle, which is defined as the angle between a horizontal line passing through C7 and a line extending from the tragus of the ear to C7. The error value of the cervical position sense after cervical flexion, extension, and rotation was evaluated using the head repositioning accuracy test. [Results] There were significant differences in the error value of the joint position sense (cervical flexion, extension, and rotation) between the FHP and control groups. In addition, there was an inverse correlation between the craniovertebral angle and error value of the joint position sense. [Conclusion] FHP is associated with reduced proprioception. This result implies that the change in the muscle length caused by FHP decreases the joint position sense. Also, proprioception becomes worse as FHP becomes more severe.

Comparing the effectiveness of myofascial techniques with massage in persons with upper crossed syndrome (preliminary report)

“…Upper crossed syndrome is a pathology characterised by significant body posture deviations from the commonly accepted norms [1,7]. Thus, its treatment should be based on the guidelines of postural education.…”

“…Przejawia się ona zwiększoną lordozą szyjną oraz pogłębioną kifozą piersiową, a także nadmierną protrakcją barków [1]. Rozwój tego schorzenia nastąpił wraz z ewolucją człowieka z aktywnego do siedzącego trybu życia.…”

“…It is manifested through increased cervical lordosis and thoracic kyphosis as well as excessive shoulder protraction [1]. This condition developed in the course of human evolution from active to sedentary lifestyle.…”

“…In physiotherapy, myofascial dysfunctions are treated with myofascial techniques and massage [1,3,6]. However, the effectiveness, dynamics of mięśniowo-powięziowego prowadzą do ograniczenia ruchomości poszczególnych stawów, w omawianym przypadku odcinka szyjnego kręgosłupa oraz klatki piersiowej [5].…”

“…W praktyce fizjoterapeutycznej do leczenia zaburzeń w obrębie kompleksu mięśniowo-powięziowe-go są wykorzystywane techniki mięśniowo-powię-ziowe oraz masaż klasyczny [1,3,6]. Jednak ocena skuteczności, dynamiki zmian i długości utrzymywania się efektów powyższych form terapii w leczeniu asymptomatycznego zespołu posturalnego nie jest do końca zbadana.…”