Comparing Suboccipital Muscle Inhibition and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization to Treat Forward Head Posture in Adults Aged 18 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Forward Head Posture FHP is a common postural problem where the head is positioned forward relative to the shoulders. This condition is linked to muscle imbalances, neck pain, limited neck movement, and changes in muscle activity. The study aims to compare two therapy methods, Sub-Occipital Muscle Inhibition SMI and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization IASTM, to see which is more effective in improving posture, reducing pain, and increasing neck mobility in people with FHP. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group A will receive conventional physical therapy including hot pack, stretching, and strengthening exercises combined with SMI. Group B will receive the same physical therapy combined with IASTM. Both groups will undergo 18 treatment sessions over six weeks, with three sessions per week on alternate days. Treatments include hot packs, manual therapy techniques, stretching of tight muscles, and strengthening exercises for weak muscles. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start and after six weeks for pain intensity, neck disability, endurance of deep neck flexors, craniovertebral angle, and cervical range of motion. Researchers will monitor these outcomes to evaluate the effects of the treatments. The total participation time is six weeks, with regular sessions and evaluations to track progress and safety.

Comparative Effects of Suboccipital Muscle Inhibition vs Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization in Forward Head Posture