Screening of Forward Head Posture Through Measurement of Craniovertebral Angle in Medical Students

Abstract

Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent musculoskeletal deviation among students, often linked to prolonged sedentary behavior and digital device use. Despite its growing incidence, limited research in Pakistan objectively evaluates FHP in medical students using validated clinical tools, creating a knowledge gap in early identification and intervention strategies. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of forward head posture among medical students by measuring the craniovertebral angle (CVA) using a universal goniometer, and to examine its association with age and gender. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore, involving 180 medical students aged 18–25 years. Participants with a history of spinal surgery, musculoskeletal disorders, or congenital deformities were excluded. CVA was measured using a universal goniometer in seated posture, with three readings averaged per participant. A CVA < 50° indicated FHP, classified into mild (<49.9°), moderate (<40°), and severe (<30°). Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB No. ASMC/2023/073), and informed consent was secured per the Helsinki Declaration. Data were analyzed using SPSS v27, with chi-square tests assessing associations between FHP severity and demographic variables. Results: Of 180 students, 87.8% exhibited FHP; 53.9% had mild, 32.2% moderate, and 1.7% severe FHP. No significant association was found between CVA and age (p = 0.869) or gender (p = 0.407), indicating a broad susceptibility across demographics. Conclusion: The high prevalence of FHP among medical students highlights the urgent need for early screening and posture correction strategies. Objective assessment using goniometry can guide clinical interventions to prevent long-term musculoskeletal complications.