Effect of Thoracic and Scapular Exercises on Pain and Craniovertebral Angle in Students with Forward Head Posture: A Quasi Experimental Study

Introduction: Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a prevalent habitual postural malalignment that often develops at a young age and is frequently observed in individuals who spend extended periods sitting, reading, or working on computers. The decrease in the Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) is linked to a higher prevalence of FHP and an increased level of disability among individuals experiencing neck pain. Aim: To investigate the effect of scapular stability and thoracic exercises on pain and CVA in college students with FHP. Materials and Methods: This quasi experimental study was conducted at the Physiotherapy Outpatient Department (OPD), School of Health Sciences, Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, from August 2023 to March 2024. A total of 32 participants (aged 18-25 years) meeting the inclusion criteria {FHP, CVA <51° or less, and neck pain >3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS)} were recruited. Participants underwent Scapular Stabilisation Exercises (SSE) and Thoracic Extension Exercises (TEE) four times weekly for six weeks. Demographic parameters such as age, gender, and baseline CVA were recorded. Pain and CVA were assessed preand post-intervention using the NPRS and modified universal goniometry, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: A statistically significant improvement was observed in NPRS scores (pre: 4.22±1.008; post: 3.34±0.902; p=0.001) and CVA (pre: 49.81±2.023°; post: 50.75±2.064°; p=0.002) after the intervention. Conclusion: The study concludes that SSE combined with TEE effectively alleviates pain and improves CVA among college students with FHP.