DNS Breathing or Myofascial Release versus standard exercises for forward head posture in university students
Official title: The Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Breathing and Manual Therapy on Forward Head Posture in University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Istinye University · NCT07721389 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether DNS breathing or targeted myofascial release, each added to standard neck exercises, can help university students with forward head posture and mild neck pain more than conventional exercises alone.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 28 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Istinye University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Zeytinburnu) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 16, 2025 |
| Main results expected | July 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07721389 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
University students aged 18–28 with photogrammetrically confirmed forward head posture and mild to moderate neck pain (VAS 0–6).
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without measurable photogrammetric forward head posture or with severe neck pain (VAS ≥7) may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial compares three intervention strategies for forward head posture in university students. One group performs DNS breathing plus conventional exercises, another receives suboccipital myofascial release plus conventional exercises, and a control group does conventional exercises alone. The study uses photogrammetric assessment to confirm forward head posture and measures neck pain and function over time. Participants are 18 to 28 years old with mild to moderate neck pain and no major cervical spine conditions. The trial is conducted at Istinye University in Istanbul, sponsored by Istinye University with no listed collaborators.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved head-neck alignment and reduced neck pain with non-invasive therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous approaches using targeted manual therapy and posture-focused exercises have shown promise in improving FHP, but the specific DNS breathing approach is less established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: University student aged 18 to 28 years Presence of forward head posture confirmed by photogrammetric assessment Mild to moderate cervical pain (VAS score between 0 and 6) Voluntary agreement to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: History of cervical spine surgery Presence of neurological disorders Diagnosis of cervical disc herniation Severe musculoskeletal pain (VAS ≥ 7)
Where it's running
-
İstinye University, Fizyoterapi ve Rehabilitasyon Uygulama ve Araştırma Merkezi -İSÜFİZYOTEM
Istanbul, Zeytinburnu, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Prof.Dr. Habibe. Serap İnal, doctor of physical therapy — istinye university, faculty of health sciences , Department of physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Study coordinator: Prof.Dr. H. Habibe serap INAL, doctor of physical therapy
- Email: serap.inal@galata.edu.tr
- Phone: +905325573354
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.