Actively Recruiting
Impact of Forward Head Posture on Postural Stability and Kinematic Gait Characteristics: A Comparative Cross Sectional Study
Led by Cairo University · Updated on 2026-05-22
66
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
33 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This research aims to study the impact of forward head posture (FHP), a common postural issue where the head leans forward compared to the trunk, on balance and walking patterns in young adults. FHP has become more common due to extended use of digital devices and is linked to muscle and nerve problems as well as poor postural control. The study will compare people with FHP to those with normal posture to better understand how head position affects stability and walking. Participants will be split into two groups based on their craniovertebral angle: one with FHP (angle less than 50 degrees) and a control group with normal posture. Each participant will have one lab session where their posture is assessed using photos and a smartphone app. Their balance will be measured with the Biodex Balance System through standing tests, and their walking will be evaluated with the Biodex Gait Trainer while walking at comfortable and fast speeds. Various balance and walking measures will be recorded. During the study session, participants will undergo posture measurement, balance testing with three trials of 20 seconds each, and gait analysis covering speed, step length, cadence, and symmetry. Researchers will analyze the relationship between balance and walking characteristics. The main outcomes include walking speed and multiple stability and gait indexes, tracked over approximately one year. The study is observational and involves healthy adults aged 18 to 35 years who can walk independently.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Impact of Forward Head Posture on Postural Stability and Gait Kinematics
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Cranio-vertebral angle less than 50 degrees
- Age from 18 to 35 years old
- Body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9
- Ability to walk independently without assistive devices
You will not qualify if you...
- History of neck trauma, recent fractures, or surgery affecting the neck
- Presence of neurological or systemic conditions impacting the neck
- Pregnancy or malignancy
- Inability to understand or respond to study assessments
- Known respiratory or cardiovascular conditions affecting gait analysis
- Vestibular, visual, or sensory impairments affecting balance
- Current physical therapy or ergonomic intervention for forward head posture
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants undergo assessment of head posture, postural stability, and gait characteristics during a laboratory-based session.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Through study completion, an average of 1 year
Participants' walking speed and postural stability are observed over an average of 1 year to evaluate changes.
No scheduled visits; assessments occur through observation
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Cairo University
Giza, Egypt
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
Y
Yasmin Magdy Othman Yasmin Magdy Othman, Bachelor
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
2
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