The Effect of Exercises on Flexion Relaxation in Adolescents With Forward Head Posture and Rounded Shoulders

Purpose: Previous research indicates a positive correlation between the forward head and forward shoulder angle (FHRSA) and the maintenance of a flexed neck position over an extended period, leading to static stress on the musculoskeletal system.This study aimed to ascertain the benefits of a course of training on flexion-relaxation in male adolescents with forward head and forward shoulder postures.Methods: Sixty males with FHRSA were selected for the current study and split into two groups: Corrective exercise (CE) (n=30) and non-treatment group (n=30).The intervention group underwent training.Exercises were performed twice a week for approximately 20-30 minutes, while the control group received advice on how to correct posture.Electromyography data of the upper extremities of 60 participants with FHRSA (control=30, CE=30) were recorded.At the same time, participants in both groups performed the cervical flexion-relaxation task under two different conditions (before and after the intervention).The forward head and shoulder angles were evaluated using side photography.A mixed repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized for data analysis.Results: Significant timegroup interactions were observed for electromyography (P<0.05),indicating that the response differed between the control and CE groups.CE, but not the control condition, was accompanied by a decrease in the onset time of muscle activation, indicative of improved flexion-relaxation (P<0.05).CE, but not so in the non-treatment group, resulted in a decreased forward head angle (FHA) (F [12, 0] , P<0.001, p =0.172) and rounded shoulder angle (RSA) (F [15, 4] , P<0.001, p =0.211). Conclusion: CE can improve posture and flexion relaxation in individuals with forward head and rounded shoulders.Additionally, CE can improve posture and reduce muscle imbalances in individuals with FHRSA.