Correlation between forward head posture and proprioception function in patients with cervical spondylosis

Abstract

Background: cervical spondylosis and forward head posture are the most common musculoskeletal problems among the society. Few studies investigating the effect of FHP on proprioception function. Objective: The study aimed to determine the relationship between forward head posture (FHP) and proprioception function in patients with cervical spondylosis and to detect the effect of cervical spondylosis severity on FHP and proprioception function. Patients and Methods: sixty patients with cervical spondylosis from both sex were participated in the study. Their age ranged from 30-50 years old. Patients were divided into three equal groups; Mild group (GI), moderate group (GII) and severe group (GIII) according to cervical degenerative index (CDI). Lateral photography was used to measure craniovertebral angle (CVA) from sagittal plane. Cervical range of motion device (CROM) was used for assessment of proprioception error in flexion and extension. Results: There was a negative correlation between CVA and proprioception error. A statistical significant difference in the median values of CVA and proprioception errors between the three groups (P<0.05) with proprioception error is significantly higher in (GII) and (GIII) than (GI) and the CVA is significantly lower in (GIII) than other groups. Conclusion: Forward head posture is associated with reduced proprioception. Also, Progression of cervical spondylosis was concomitant with reduced CVA and increase error value of proprioception.