Does Head Posture Alter Gait Parameters and Symmetry in Young Adults with Forward Head Posture? A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural problem. However, its influence on gait kinematics remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of head posture on gait spatiotemporal parameters and asymmetry in young adults. Material and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on young adults categorized into two groups: FHP and normal posture, based on the cut-off value of the craniovertebral angle (CVA). The CVA, cranial rotation angle, and cranial horizontal angle were calculated using lateral photographs and analyzed using MB-Ruler software. Demographic information, including gender, age, height, and weight, was recorded, and gait spatio-temporal parameters—initial contact, support, swing, step phases, dynamic pressure, and gait symmetry scores—were measured using the FreeMED force platform (Sensor Medica, Italy). Gait symmetry was calculated using the symmetry index. Results: A total of 66 participants (41 females and 25 males) were included in the study, with an average age of 23 (22–23 IQR). There was a moderate positive correlation between left step cycle length and cranial rotation angle (r=0.316, p=0.024). However, no significant differences were determined in other gait kinematic parameters between groups (p>0.05). Additionally, no significant correlation was found between CVA and gait spatiotemporal parameters or gait symmetry (p>0.05). Conclusion: The findings suggest that FHP does not significantly alter kinematic spatiotemporal gait parameters and gait symmetry in young adults. Research is required to investigate three-dimensional posture and gait analysis methods that can provide more accurate measurements. Keywords: Craniovertebral angle, forward head posture, gait, symmetry.