Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 to 35

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 typeObservational
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
Enrollment66 (estimated)
SponsorCairo University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Giza)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 11, 2026
Main results expectedMay 11, 2026
Study endsDecember 30, 2026
Registry record updatedMay 22, 2026
Trial IDNCT07603947 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

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.