Association between Thoracic Kyphosis and Forward Head Posture in Teenagers: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Hyperkyphosis of the thoracic spine and forward head posture are common alterations in teenagers and cause diverse symptomatology, but their association still remains obscure. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the association between thoracic kyphosis and forward head posture in teenagers between 11 and 17 years of age. Methods: In this analytical cross-sectional study, 84 students between 11 and 17 participated. Those who suffered from previous traumatic injuries in the thoracic or cervical spine were excluded. A Stadler® flexible ruler and a SenseAid® bubble inclinometer were used to measure thoracic kyphosis. The measurement of forward head posture was conducted through the craniovertebral angle. An application denominated “Forward Head Posture©” was employed, and an ad hoc questionnaire was utilized. Information such as sex, age, and pain in the cervical and thoracic spine among the study population was collected from this questionnaire. Results: A positive correlation and a statistically significant association (P < 0.05) were found between forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis. Age showed a significant association with forward head posture (a prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.15, P = 0.005), and students reporting backache had a lower prevalence of this forward head posture (aPR = 0.64, P = 0.025). Conclusions: There was a positive correlation and a statistically significant association between forward head posture and thoracic kyphosis in teenagers between 11 and 17 years of age.