Enhancing Respiratory Functions and Cervical Proprioception with Myofascial Release and Feedback Respiratory Training in Forward Head Posture: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Abstract Context: Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent abnormal posture, leading to abnormal postural angles, diminished respiratory parameters, and decline in cervical proprioception. Aim: The study aimed to improve head posture along with improvement in respiratory functions and cervical proprioception in FHP individuals using feedback respiratory exercises (FRE) and myofascial release (MFR) technique. Settings and Design: The study was a randomized controlled pilot trial, conducted at the Outpatient Department of Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight participants of 20–45 years having FHP were randomly assigned to four groups, i.e., Group A (control group), Group B (MFR group), Group C (FRE group), and Group D (combined group). The outcome measures such as craniovertebral angle, cranial rotation angle, cranial angle, forward shoulder angle, pectoralis minor length, neck disability index, chest expansion, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and cervical proprioception were assessed pre- and postintervention (after 6 weeks). Statistical Analysis Used: The comparison between the groups at baseline and postintervention was done using one-way ANOVA test and within group was performed using a paired t-test. Results: The results indicated significant difference in all outcome measures in all four groups during within-group comparison. Similarly, a significant difference was observed between the groups except for cervical proprioception. In addition, recruitment and retention rates were 90.56% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: The study concludes MFR and FRE when given along with conventional treatment provides additional benefits in all outcome measures except cervical proprioception.