Biofeedback-guided training to improve neck and shoulder strength and posture in upper cross syndrome
Effects of Biofeedback-Guided Training on Muscle Strength and Postural Alignment in Upper Cross Syndrome.
This trial tests whether biofeedback-guided training helps adults aged 25–45 with upper cross syndrome strengthen weak neck and shoulder muscles and improve posture compared with conventional exercises.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Ages | 25 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07026084 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled study enrolls adults 25–45 years old diagnosed with upper cross syndrome and persistent neck pain. Participants are randomly assigned to either biofeedback-guided training or a conventional exercise program, each delivered in 12 sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions/week). Muscle strength and postural alignment are measured at baseline, after the first session, and at weekly intervals using standardized tests such as the cranio-cervical flexion test and posture angles. The trial compares changes in deep cervical flexor strength, cervical range of motion, forward head posture, and thoracic kyphosis between groups.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 25–45 with diagnosed upper cross syndrome, reduced deep cervical flexor strength, limited cervical range of motion, forward head posture and increased thoracic kyphosis, and neck pain lasting more than three months.
Not a fit: Patients with recent neck surgery or injury, neurological disorders affecting muscle tone, other musculoskeletal conditions that impact muscle performance, or those already enrolled in focused physical therapy for UCS are unlikely to benefit from joining this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could improve neck and shoulder strength, reduce forward head posture and kyphosis, and decrease chronic neck pain for people with upper cross syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Prior small trials of biofeedback-guided deep neck flexor training have reported improvements in muscle activation and neck pain, but the overall evidence is limited and not yet conclusive.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Adults aged 25-45 years with both genders. * Individuals meeting the following diagnostic criteria for upper cross syndrome will be included: * Reduced strength of deep cervical flexors = unable to maintain pressure beyond 22-24 mm Hg (assessed via cranio-cervical flexion test). * Limited cervical range of motion (Flexion: \< 80 degrees, Extension: \< 70 degrees, Rotation: \< 90 degrees on both sides, Lateral Flexion: \< 20 degrees) * Postural deviations: forward head posture (CVA \<50 degrees), increased thoracic kyphosis (via flexi curve \>45 degrees). * Neck pain with a duration of over 3 months Exclusion Criteria: * • History of recent neck surgery or injury. * Patients with neurological disorders affecting muscle tone. * Involvement in other physical therapy programs focused on UCS. * Diagnosed musculoskeletal condition that could impact muscle performance.
Where this trial is running
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province
- Watch Guard Tech — Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aisha Razzaq, PHD* — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, Phd
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 0332430125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.