The association between forward head posture and non-specific neck pain: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Musculoskeletal health
• Biomechanical analysis
• Clinical assessment

Background:

• Poor posture is linked to musculoskeletal disorders.
• Forward head posture (FHP) is suspected to cause neck pain, but evidence is inconclusive.
• Postural observation is a common teaching method in musculoskeletal education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the link between FHP and neck pain, disability, and cervical kinematics.
• To compare individuals with and without neck pain regarding FHP.
• To assess the impact of virtual reality (VR) assessments using a head-mounted display (HMD) on FHP.

Main Methods:

• 43 volunteers (20 asymptomatic, 23 with neck pain) participated.
• Forward head posture (FHP) was measured using the craniovertebral angle from photographs.
• Neck pain intensity, disability (NDI), and kinematics were assessed using VR software and questionnaires.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in FHP was found between neck pain and asymptomatic groups.
• Individuals with neck pain showed restricted range of motion and slower neck movements.
• FHP did not correlate significantly with pain intensity, disability, or most kinematic measures.

Conclusions:

• The study does not support a clinically relevant association between FHP and neck pain.
• Neck pain is associated with reduced neck mobility and slower movements.
• FHP measurement via craniovertebral angle may not be a reliable indicator for neck pain.