Document Type : Original article
Authors
1
Department of Physiotherapy, Student Research Committee, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2
Department of Physiotherapy, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3
Department of Biostatistics, Proteomics Research Center, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
10.32598/SJRM.15.2.3318
Abstract
Background and Aims Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural disorder characterized by a straightened cervical arch, resulting in the head being positioned forward of the body’s vertical line. This condition has become increasingly common with the rise of computer and mobile device usage. Exercise therapy is recognized as the most effective treatment for FHP, and incorporating innovative methods like virtual reality (VR) could enhance its effectiveness by increasing motivation, repetitions, and exercise duration. This study aims to investigate the impact of virtual reality-based exercise therapy on individuals with forward head posture.
Methods In this interventional clinical trial, 50 young adults aged 18 to 29 with FHP were randomly assigned to two groups. The virtual reality group performed the chin tuck exercise in a game format using VR glasses, while the control group carried out the same exercise at home without VR assistance. Key variables, including craniovertebral angle, pain levels, neck disability index, range of motion, and balance, were assessed before and after the intervention for both groups.
Results The results indicated that both the chin tuck exercise with VR and the exercise without VR significantly improved the measured variables (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the outcomes between the two groups.
Conclusion This study concluded that both conventional exercise therapy and exercise therapy enhanced by virtual reality effectively improved the craniovertebral angle, pain levels, neck disability, range of motion, and balance in young individuals with forward head posture.
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