Effects of forward head posture on the centre of pressure sway during dual-task balancing with smartphone engagement

Purpose Forward head posture (FHP) may affect postural stability and balance. This study examines how smartphone texting while balancing, as a dual task, influences the body’s centre of pressure (CoP) during single-leg standing in individuals with FHP compared to those with normal posture. Methods The study utilized a randomized repeated measures design to assess single-leg standing balance and CoP across six conditions. Fifty participants, divided into two groups (25 with FHP and 25 with normal posture), underwent testing sequences involving non-smartphone usage (NU; single task), one-handed smartphone usage (1H; dual task), and two-handed smartphone usage (2H; dual task) on both soft and hard surfaces. Results The study found that individuals with FHP showed increased CoP sway compared to those with normal posture across all conditions. Both 1H and 2H increased sway compared to non-usage for both groups, with a notable difference in FHP individuals on soft surfaces, where 2H led to greater sway. Conclusions Individuals with FHP are at a higher risk of balance issues during both NU and smartphone use, particularly during 2H. These results highlight the importance of addressing the impact of FHP on balance control and implementing interventions to reduce associated risks.