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A Preliminary Diagnostic Model for Forward Head Posture among Adolescents Using Forward Neck Tilt Angle and
Young Jae Moon1, Tae Young Ahn2, Seung Woo Suh3
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biochemistry, Research Institute of Clinical Medicine of Jeonbuk National University-Biomedical Research Institute of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea.
A new method using the forward neck tilt angle (FNTA) effectively screens for forward head posture (FHP). This noninvasive approach identifies individuals needing further radiographic assessment, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural issue with limited evidence-based diagnostic tools.
- Accurate screening and diagnosis are crucial for effective FHP management and correction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a preliminary diagnostic methodology for FHP.
- To assess the utility of a noninvasive body angle measurement system (forward neck tilt angle - FNTA) as a screening tool for FHP.
- To evaluate the correlation between FNTA and radiological parameters of sagittal alignment.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 145 adolescents underwent FHP screening using the POM-Checker to measure FNTA.
- Whole-spine lateral radiographs were obtained to measure eight sagittal alignment parameters.
- A preliminary diagnostic model for FHP was developed using 70% of the data and validated on the remaining 30%.
Main Results:
- Radiological parameters showed weak statistical significance with FNTA (best r = 0.16).
- The preliminary diagnostic model demonstrated 95.35% agreement for FHP diagnosis.
- FNTA alone accurately identified 100% of participants requiring radiographic scanning for FHP diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- FNTA assessment via the proposed model is a significant screening factor for identifying individuals requiring radiographic FHP diagnosis.
- While radiological parameters are important, FNTA serves as a highly effective preliminary screening tool.
- Noninvasive FNTA measurement can streamline the diagnostic process for forward head posture.
