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Relationship between Forward Head Posture and Tissue Mechanosensitivity: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Patricia Martinez-Merinero1,2, Susana Nuñez-Nagy3, Alexander Achalandabaso-Ochoa4
1Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciencies, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|March 4, 2020
Summary
Forward head posture (FHP) may increase cervical tissue sensitivity, potentially leading to pain. This study found FHP associated with lower pain thresholds and reduced neck movement, but not directly with neck pain, disability, or headaches.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Clinical Biomechanics
- Musculoskeletal Health
Background:
- Forward head posture (FHP) is prevalent and may influence cervical mechanosensitivity.
- The link between FHP, cervical tissue sensitivity, and pain remains unclear.
- Understanding FHP's impact is crucial for managing neck pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of FHP on the mechanosensitivity of cervical articular, muscular, and neural tissues.
- To analyze the relationship between FHP and cervical range of motion.
- To explore potential associations between FHP and neck pain, disability, and headaches.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study comparing individuals with and without FHP (n=32 vs. n=64).
- Measurement of pressure pain threshold (PPT) in various cervical locations and joints.
- Assessment of cervical spine range of motion (ROM).
- Statistical analysis using ANOVA and correlation coefficients.
Main Results:
- Individuals with FHP exhibited significantly lower PPT in most measured cervical sites.
- Reduced cervical extension and right rotation range of motion were observed in the FHP group.
- No significant association was found between FHP and self-reported neck pain, disability, or headache.
Conclusions:
- FHP is linked to heightened mechanosensitivity in cervical tissues and reduced neck mobility.
- The direct relationship between FHP, tissue sensitivity, and the experience of neck pain requires further investigation.
- Clinical implications may involve addressing FHP to potentially mitigate cervical discomfort.
