Abstract

EFFECT OF FORWARD HEAD POSTURE ON STATIC AND DYNAMIC BALANCE

Roma Raykar, Komal Tajne* and Tushar Palekar

Abstract

Introduction: Forward head posture is one of the commonest postural malalignment. Very few studies have been done in Indian population to check the effect of forward head posture on static and dynamic balance. In forward head posture, center of gravity (COG) of head shifts in antero-superior direction, increasing the load on the neck causing dysfunction of musculoskeletal system and neuronal system. Objectives: 1: To assess forward head posture using universal goniometer 2: To assess static and dynamic balance using modified CTSIB 3: To assess effect of Forward head posture on static balance and dynamic balance. Materials and method: This study included 50 participants of age group 18-45 years. Individuals with symptomatic and asymptomatic forward head posture and individuals who are able to carry out their ADL independently were included in study. Individuals with any auditory, visual problem, structural deformity and surgery at any joint of lower limb, history of epilepsy, any disease affecting the balance and neuromuscular control were excluded. From the selected subjects their forward head assessment was performed by using a universal goniometer. Static and Dynamic balance assessment was done using firm and foam surface using Modified CT-SIB. Result: 6% subjects had impairment in static balance (eyes closed), 48% subjects had impairment in dynamic balance(eyes open), 86% subjects had impairment in dynamic balance(eyes closed). The impairment in dynamic balance was found to be greater than static balance. Conclusion: Forward head posture has effect on static and dynamic balance.

Keywords: Forward head posture, Static balance, Dynamic balance, Modified CTSIB.