Forward head posture and its effect on balance and walking in young adults
Official title: Impact of Forward Head Posture on Postural Stability and Kinematic Gait Characteristics: A Comparative Cross Sectional Study
Run by Cairo University · NCT07603947 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether young adults with forward head posture differ from peers with normal posture in balance and walking patterns.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 66 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Giza) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 11, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 11, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | May 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07603947 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Young adults aged 18–35 with craniovertebral angle <50 degrees.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with normal posture (craniovertebral angle ≥50 degrees) or those with conditions excluding participation 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
In this cross-sectional analysis, researchers compare postural stability and detailed gait kinematics between young adults with forward head posture and matched controls. They will measure craniovertebral angle to define groups and use laboratory assessments to capture balance and gait parameters. The goal is to understand how head alignment relates to whole-body balance and walking mechanics in asymptomatic individuals. The study will recruit 66 participants aged 18–35 years and analyze correlations between stability measures and gait metrics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could clarify how neck alignment influences balance and gait, informing prevention and rehabilitation approaches for FHP.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown separate effects of posture on balance or gait, but the combined relationship in FHP is less well established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Cranio-vertebral angle less than 50◦ * Age from 18-35 years old (Young adults) * BMI from 18.5-24.9 * Participants can walk independently without assistive devices Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals are excluded if they have had: * Neck trauma, recent fractures, or Surgery or any underlying neurological or systemic conditions affecting the neck * Pregnancy or Malignancy * any inability to comprehend or respond to study assessments * Any known respiratory or cardiovascular conditions that might affect the results of gait analysis * Vestibular problems, visual problems, and sensory impairment affecting balance * If they are undergoing current physical therapy or ergonomic intervention for FHP
Where it's running
-
Cairo University
Giza, Egypt Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yasmin Magdy Othman Yasmin Magdy Othman, Bachelor
- Email: ymothman@msa.edu.eg
- Phone: 01061051254
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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.