Effects of Pilates and cervical stabilization exercises on neck alignment, neck function, and balance in individuals with forward head posture: A randomized controlled trial

Backgroud Although reformer Pilates exercise (RPE) and cervical stabilization exercise (CSE) are effective for improving forward head posture (FHP), the effects of these two exercise programs have not been compared. Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of RPE and CSE on neck alignment, neck function, and balance in individuals with FHP. Methods A total of 22 participants with FHP were randomly assigned to the RPE group (n = 11) or the CSE group (n = 11) and underwent a 6-week exercise program. The effects of RPE and CSE were evaluated by comparing craniovertebral angle (CVA), neck disability index (NDI), and overall stability index (OSI) before and after the intervention. Results In both RPE and CSE groups, CVA and NDI significantly improved while OSI significantly decreased but only during the eyes-closed one-leg stance condition, from pre- to post-intervention. However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups. Conclusions Both RPE and CSE have been confirmed as effective exercise methods for improving FHP. Therefore, both exercises can be recommended for enhancing neck alignment, function, and balance in individuals with FHP.