Impact of wearing a headscarf on forward head posture and dynamic balance in young collegiate females

<i>Objectives</i>. A headscarf is a piece of fabric designed to cover the head while also wrapping around the neck. Styling of the headscarf in different ways can affect posture or balance control and a rise in forward head posture (FHP). This research aimed to examine the impact of wearing a headscarf on FHP and dynamic balance (DB) in young collegiate females. <i>Methods</i>. The sample size of 100 participants was categorized into two groups (wearing a headscarf and not wearing a headscarf). Measurements of FHP (craniovertebral angle, sagittal head tilt) by the photographic method and DB by the Y-balance method were performed. <i>Results</i>. The findings reveal that the group wearing a headscarf exhibits significant differences in both FHP and DB compared to those not wearing a headscarf, suggesting that headscarf usage may lead to abnormal head repositioning and increased tension in the posterior neck, and affect DB in females. <i>Conclusions</i>. The practice of wearing a headscarf contributes to abnormal head positioning and altered DB, providing valuable insights into the potential musculoskeletal effects. Implementing a comprehensive approach, encompassing education, ergonomic guidance, stretching and strengthening exercises, can enhance posture, DB and musculoskeletal health while wearing a headscarf.