Evaluation of the Relationship Between Craniovertebral Angle and Fibromyalgia Symptom Severity

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study the relationship between forward head posture and symptom severity in patients with fibromyalgia, a chronic pain syndrome marked by widespread pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue, mood and cognitive issues, and increased sensitivity. The study explores how forward head posture, measured by the craniovertebral angle, may contribute to central sensitization and worsen fibromyalgia symptoms through mechanisms involving the trigeminocervical complex. Understanding this link could provide insights into how posture affects pain processing in fibromyalgia patients. The study involves two groups: one with fibromyalgia patients aged 18 to 55 diagnosed according to specific criteria, and a control group of similar age and gender with mechanical knee pain but no neck complaints. Researchers will measure the craniovertebral angle to assess forward head posture and evaluate fibromyalgia impact using questionnaires. The study does not involve treatment but observes and compares posture and symptom severity in these groups. Participants will undergo assessments including measurement of their craniovertebral angle and completion of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire over a period of up to 12 weeks. This observational period allows researchers to monitor posture and symptom changes. The study includes careful screening to exclude those with recent spine or head surgeries, structural spinal issues, neurological or psychiatric disorders, or inflammatory rheumatic diseases. The total participation duration extends to 12 weeks with follow-up evaluations to understand the posture-symptom relationship in fibromyalgia.

Craniovertebral Angle and Fibromyalgia Severity