Comparing GPR versus NASM corrective exercises for upper-cross posture and neck pain
Comparative Effects of Global Postural Re-education and NASM-based Corrective Exercises in Patients With Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS)
NA · Superior University · NCT07528248
This tests whether Global Postural Re-education or NASM-based corrective exercises better reduce pain and disability and improve neck endurance and posture in adults aged 20–45 with upper cross syndrome.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 46 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Superior University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Okāra, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07528248 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults with upper cross syndrome (craniovertebral angle <47°) will be assigned to receive either Global Postural Re-education (GPR) or NASM-based corrective exercises three times per week for eight weeks. Pain, disability, muscle endurance, and craniovertebral angle will be measured at baseline, at four weeks, and at the end of the eight-week program. Each intervention consists of therapist-led, posture-focused exercise sessions designed to correct muscle imbalances and improve alignment. The trial compares the two active exercise programs to see if one produces greater improvements in symptoms and posture.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 20–45 with neck and upper back pain, rounded shoulders, a craniovertebral angle under 47°, and willingness/ability to attend supervised sessions three times per week are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with prior spinal surgery, neurological deficits, severe scoliosis, or active cervical spine disease are excluded and would not be expected to benefit from these protocols within this trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the results could guide clinicians toward the more effective exercise program to reduce pain and improve posture and neck endurance for people with upper cross syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous physiotherapy research indicates posture-focused and corrective-exercise programs can reduce neck/shoulder pain and improve posture, but direct head-to-head comparisons of GPR versus NASM approaches are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age between 20-45 years 2. Pain in the upper back and neck region. 3. Both male and female patients 4. Rounded shoulders 5. Craniovertebral angle less than 47 degrees 6. Willingness to participate Exclusion Criteria: 1. History of spinal surgery 2. Neurological deficits (radiculopathy, myelopathy, disc herniation) 3. Severe scoliosis or structural deformity 4. Active cervical spine pathology (spondylosis, stenosis and fracture)
Where this trial is running
Okāra, Punjab Province
- District Headquarter Hospital (DHQ) Okara — Okāra, Punjab Province, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
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.
Conditions: Upper Cross Syndrome