Postural Correction Exercises and Muscle Activity in Forward Head Posture
Official title: Electromyographic Changes in Masticatory and Cervical Muscles Following a Structured 10-week Postural Correction Exercise Program in Individuals With Asymptomatic Forward Head Posture: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Cairo University · NCT07780396 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a 10-week program of targeted postural exercises changes facial and neck muscle activity in people with forward head posture.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Beirut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | October 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | October 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | August 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07780396 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18-30 with forward head posture (CVA < 50°) and no recent TMD or neck treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals outside the age range, without forward head posture, or with current or recent TMD or cervical issues may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The trial will compare a structured exercise program to a control condition in adults with forward head posture. Participants will perform two strengthening and two stretching exercises four times a week for 10 weeks, with sessions lasting 30 minutes. Outcomes include changes in craniovertebral angle to assess head posture and EMG activity of masticatory and neck muscles measured before and after the intervention. The study uses a randomized, blinded design, with data collected in a Beirut-based outpatient setting. The goal is to see if postural correction can modulate muscle activity and mandibular opening in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could offer a non-pharmacologic approach to improve muscle balance and function in forward head posture.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research suggests that targeted postural interventions can influence neck and masticatory muscle activity, but results vary across populations.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 1\. Participants aged 18- 30 years. 2. Presence of forward head posture, defined as CVA of less than 50° with no symptoms of neck pain \[18, 19\]. 3. No treatment for TMD or cervical symptoms (e.g., medication, physical therapy, or intra-articular injection) within the previous 2 weeks. Exclusion Criteria: * 1\. Current or previous diagnosis of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), or the presence of TMD-related signs or symptoms (e.g., joint sounds, restricted mouth opening, or orofacial pain) during screening. 2\. History of TMJ subluxation or dislocation that could interfere with mouth opening. 3\. History of recent head or neck trauma. 4. Angle Class II or Class III malocclusion. 5. Postural abnormalities secondary to structural spinal deformities (e.g., scoliosis or kyphosis), rheumatic diseases, or other medical conditions affecting posture. 6\. Missing posterior teeth, recent orthodontic treatment (within the previous 12 months), or dental restorations that altered occlusion.
Where it's running
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Physical therapy outpatient clinic
Beirut, Lebanon Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ahmed M Elsayed, PhD
- Email: ahmed.elmelhat@cu.edu.eg
- Phone: 00201027943622
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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.