Upper Crossed SyndromeNCT07182461
The Effects of Dynamic Taping Combined With Corrective Exercises on Cervical Proprioception and Muscle Imbalance in Patients With Upper Crossed Syndrome
A study testing Dynamic Tape, Swiss Ball and Dumbbells in people with Upper Crossed Syndrome, run by China Medical University Hospital at 1 site in Taiwan.
Trial summary
Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is a pattern of muscle imbalance that leads to forward head posture, rounded shoulders, or excessive thoracic kyphosis, thereby affecting posture and cervical-shoulder function. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 20 to 35 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Upper Crossed Syndrome
- What is being tested?
- Dynamic Tape, Swiss Ball and Dumbbells
- Type of treatment
- Medical device
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTaiwan
- Study dates
- 13 Mar 2025to 31 Jul 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 20 to 35 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Age: >20years
- Craniovertebral angle (CVA) of <48
- Sagittal plane acromial angle of <52°
- Thoracic kyphosis angle of >42° Meeting any one of these three angle conditions qualifies for inclusion.
Who cannot join
- Allergic reactions to dynamic taping
- Bodyweight outside the normal range (BMI between 18 and 25)
- Any evident misalignment in the cervical spine, pelvis, or lower/upper limbs
- Trunk rotation exceeding 5°during forward bending tests due to scoliosis
- History of inherited muscle diseases, soft tissue lesions, or joint diseases involving the spine, scapulae, shoulders, abdomen, or pelvis
- History of fractures or surgeries.
- Inability to understand instructions
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Taiwan1 site
Department of Physical Therapy of China Medical University
Taichung, Beitun, 406040
About this study
Official title: The Effects of Blood Flow Restriction-based Abdominal draw-in Maneuver on Activation of Abdominal Core Muscles in Patients With Non-specific Low Back Pain
Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is a pattern of muscle imbalance that leads to forward head posture, rounded shoulders, or excessive thoracic kyphosis, thereby affecting posture and cervical-shoulder function. Dynamic Taping is a taping technique aimed at enhancing movement control and muscle support through its elastic material and tension, influencing the skin and neuromuscular system. When applied to UCS patients, Dynamic Taping can assist in posture correction, improve posture control, and increase scapular dynamic stability. Additionally, Dynamic Taping can enhance proprioception, helping patients maintain proper posture through sensory feedback. Corrective exercises improve posture and stability by strengthening weakened muscles and stretching tight muscles. Combining these two interventions is expected to help address poor posture.
Read the detailed description
This study aims to investigate the effects of Dynamic Taping combined with corrective exercises on cervical proprioception and muscle imbalance in UCS patients. A two-factor repeated measures ANOVA will be used to evaluate the effects before and after the intervention.
Participants recruited for this study must be adults aged 20 years or older. The study will evaluate their posture, including craniovertebral angle (CVA), sagittal shoulder angle (SSA), thoracic kyphosis angle, subacromial space, coracoid-humeral distance (CHD), cervical proprioception, muscle strength (deep cervical flexors, upper, middle, and lower trapezius, serratus anterior, rhomboid muscles), and electromyographic (EMG) to evaluate muscle activation (upper, middle, and lower trapezius, serratus anterior).
- Conditions
- Upper Crossed Syndrome
- Being tested
- Dynamic Tape, Swiss Ball, Dumbbells, Visual Feedback Laser Device
- Keywords
- posture, muscle imbalance, proprioception
- Medical subject headings
- Oculocerebral hypopigmentation syndrome type Preus
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Dynamic TapeDevice
Dynamic Tape is a viscoelastic tape designed to assist movement and absorb load. The material is composed of either Nylon/Lycra or Recycled PET/Lycra.
Swiss BallDevice
Also called Therapy Ball
A 75 cm diameter Swiss ball was used to provide an unstable surface during the exercise intervention.
DumbbellsDevice
During the exercise intervention, 1 kg and 2 kg dumbbells were used as external resistance.
Visual Feedback Laser DeviceDevice
A headband was prepared to attach the laser pointer securely, allowing participants to wear it . This visual feedback laser device was used during proprioceptive training to provide real-time feedback.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group) | Experimental | Participants in this group received postural taping using dynamic tape aimed at correcting forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic kyphosis. The tape was worn continuously throughout the intervention period, 24 hours a day. It was reapplied if participants reported detachment; otherwise, it was replaced every three days. In addition to taping, participants performed a corrective exercise program based on the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum, which included four phases: inhibit, lengthen, activate, and integrate. The intervention lasted for three weeks, with 3 to 4 sessions per week, totaling 10 training sessions. Each session lasted approximately 60 to 75 minutes. Receives: Device: Dynamic Tape; Device: Swiss Ball; Device: Dumbbells; Device: Visual Feedback Laser Device |
| Dynamic Taping (DT Group) | Active comparator | Participants in this group received postural taping using dynamic tape aimed at correcting forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic kyphosis. The taping method was identical to that used in the DT + EX group. The tape was worn continuously throughout the intervention period, 24 hours a day. It was reapplied if participants reported detachment; otherwise, it was replaced every three days. The intervention lasted for three weeks. No corrective exercise intervention was provided to this group. Receives: Device: Dynamic Tape |
| Corrective Exercise Group (EX Group) | Active comparator | Participants in this group performed only the corrective exercise component used in the DT + EX group. The program was based on the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum and included four phases: inhibit, lengthen, activate, and integrate. The intervention lasted for three weeks, with 3 to 4 sessions per week, totaling 10 training sessions. Each session lasted approximately 60 to 75 minutes. No taping was applied to this group. Receives: Device: Swiss Ball; Device: Dumbbells; Device: Visual Feedback Laser Device |
| Control Group | No intervention | Participants in this group did not receive any intervention. They were instructed to maintain their usual daily activities and lifestyle throughout the three-week study period. |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Posture (CVA and SSA and Kyphosis Angle)
The craniovertebral angle (CVA) and shoulder sagittal angle (SSA) were measured using the Physiomaster mobile application. During the measurement, the examiner positioned the smartphone to align the subject's image with the vertical and horizontal reference lines on the screen and then captured a photograph. The anatomical landmarks used for angle determination included the lateral canthus of the eye, the tragus of the ear, the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), and the midpoint of the line connecting the acromial processes.
The thoracic kyphosis angle was measured using the Angle Meter mobile application. First, the device was calibrated to 0°. The smartphone was then placed at the level just inferior to T1 and subsequently at the level superior to T12. The kyphosis angle was calculated by summing the two measured angles.
Measured: Participants were assessed at time points: prior to the intervention (baseline), immediately three weeks after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up.
Cervical Proprioception
Cervical proprioception was assessed using the Head Repositioning Accuracy (HRA) test with a cervical range of motion (CROM) device. Participants were instructed to adopt and recognize the neutral head position (0°). The head was then passively guided to 30° of flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. After each movement, participants actively returned to the perceived neutral position under both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. The repositioning error was defined as the angular difference between the actual and the perceived 0° position
Measured: Participants were assessed at time points: prior to the intervention (baseline), immediately three weeks after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted19 Sep 2025
- Study start13 Mar 2025
- Primary completion7 Jul 2026
- Study completion31 Jul 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Upper Crossed SyndromeStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by China Medical University HospitalThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- China Medical University Hospital
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07182461
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- CMUH113-REC3-197
- Status last verified
- Oct 2026
- First submitted
- 11 Jun 2025
- Last updated
- 7 Oct 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 7 Oct 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- The Effects of Blood Flow Restriction-based Abdominal draw-in Maneuver on Activation of Abdominal Core Muscles in Patients With Non-specific Low Back Pain
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07182461
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- CMUH113-REC3-197
- Conditions
- Upper Crossed Syndrome
- Keywords
- posture, muscle imbalance, proprioception
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- China Medical University HospitalUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 13 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 7 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 31 Jul 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 19 Sep 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is a pattern of muscle imbalance that leads to forward head posture, rounded shoulders, or excessive thoracic kyphosis, thereby affecting posture and cervical-shoulder function. Dynamic Taping is a taping technique aimed at enhancing movement control and muscle support through its elastic material and tension, influencing the skin and neuromuscular system. When applied to UCS patients, Dynamic Taping can assist in posture correction, improve posture control, and increase scapular dynamic stability. Additionally, Dynamic Taping can enhance proprioception, helping patients maintain proper posture through sensory feedback. Corrective exercises improve posture and stability by strengthening weakened muscles and stretching tight muscles. Combining these two interventions is expected to help address poor posture.
Detailed description
This study aims to investigate the effects of Dynamic Taping combined with corrective exercises on cervical proprioception and muscle imbalance in UCS patients. A two-factor repeated measures ANOVA will be used to evaluate the effects before and after the intervention.
Participants recruited for this study must be adults aged 20 years or older. The study will evaluate their posture, including craniovertebral angle (CVA), sagittal shoulder angle (SSA), thoracic kyphosis angle, subacromial space, coracoid-humeral distance (CHD), cervical proprioception, muscle strength (deep cervical flexors, upper, middle, and lower trapezius, serratus anterior, rhomboid muscles), and electromyographic (EMG) to evaluate muscle activation (upper, middle, and lower trapezius, serratus anterior).
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group) | Experimental | Device: Dynamic Tape, Device: Swiss Ball, Device: Dumbbells, Device: Visual Feedback Laser DeviceParticipants in this group received postural taping using dynamic tape aimed at correcting forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic kyphosis. The tape was worn continuously throughout the intervention period, 24 hours a day. It was reapplied if participants reported detachment; otherwise, it was replaced every three days. In addition to taping, participants performed a corrective exercise program based on the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum, which included four phases: inhibit, lengthen, activate, and integrate. The intervention lasted for three weeks, with 3 to 4 sessions per week, totaling 10 training sessions. Each session lasted approximately 60 to 75 minutes. |
| Dynamic Taping (DT Group) | Active comparator | Device: Dynamic TapeParticipants in this group received postural taping using dynamic tape aimed at correcting forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic kyphosis. The taping method was identical to that used in the DT + EX group. The tape was worn continuously throughout the intervention period, 24 hours a day. It was reapplied if participants reported detachment; otherwise, it was replaced every three days. The intervention lasted for three weeks. No corrective exercise intervention was provided to this group. |
| Corrective Exercise Group (EX Group) | Active comparator | Device: Swiss Ball, Device: Dumbbells, Device: Visual Feedback Laser DeviceParticipants in this group performed only the corrective exercise component used in the DT + EX group. The program was based on the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum and included four phases: inhibit, lengthen, activate, and integrate. The intervention lasted for three weeks, with 3 to 4 sessions per week, totaling 10 training sessions. Each session lasted approximately 60 to 75 minutes. No taping was applied to this group. |
| Control Group | No intervention | –Participants in this group did not receive any intervention. They were instructed to maintain their usual daily activities and lifestyle throughout the three-week study period. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 20 to 35 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Age: >20years
- Craniovertebral angle (CVA) of <48
- Sagittal plane acromial angle of <52°
- Thoracic kyphosis angle of >42° Meeting any one of these three angle conditions qualifies for inclusion.
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Allergic reactions to dynamic taping
- Bodyweight outside the normal range (BMI between 18 and 25)
- Any evident misalignment in the cervical spine, pelvis, or lower/upper limbs
- Trunk rotation exceeding 5°during forward bending tests due to scoliosis
- History of inherited muscle diseases, soft tissue lesions, or joint diseases involving the spine, scapulae, shoulders, abdomen, or pelvis
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic TapeDynamic Tape is a viscoelastic tape designed to assist movement and absorb load. The material is composed of either Nylon/Lycra or Recycled PET/Lycra. | Device | Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group), Dynamic Taping (DT Group) |
| Swiss BallAlso: Therapy BallA 75 cm diameter Swiss ball was used to provide an unstable surface during the exercise intervention. | Device | Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group), Corrective Exercise Group (EX Group) |
| DumbbellsDuring the exercise intervention, 1 kg and 2 kg dumbbells were used as external resistance. | Device | Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group), Corrective Exercise Group (EX Group) |
| Visual Feedback Laser DeviceA headband was prepared to attach the laser pointer securely, allowing participants to wear it . This visual feedback laser device was used during proprioceptive training to provide real-time feedback. | Device | Combined Dynamic Taping and Corrective Exercise (DT+EX Group), Corrective Exercise Group (EX Group) |
Primary outcome
Posture (CVA and SSA and Kyphosis Angle)
Time frame: Participants were assessed at time points: prior to the intervention (baseline), immediately three weeks after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up.
The craniovertebral angle (CVA) and shoulder sagittal angle (SSA) were measured using the Physiomaster mobile application. During the measurement, the examiner positioned the smartphone to align the subject's image with the vertical and horizontal reference lines on the screen and then captured a photograph. The anatomical landmarks used for angle determination included the lateral canthus of the eye, the tragus of the ear, the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), and the midpoint of the line connecting the acromial processes. The thoracic kyphosis angle was measured using the Angle Meter mobile application. First, the device was calibrated to 0°. The smartphone was then placed at the level just inferior to T1 and subsequently at the level superior to T12. The kyphosis angle was calculated by summing the two measured angles.
Cervical Proprioception
Time frame: Participants were assessed at time points: prior to the intervention (baseline), immediately three weeks after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up.
Cervical proprioception was assessed using the Head Repositioning Accuracy (HRA) test with a cervical range of motion (CROM) device. Participants were instructed to adopt and recognize the neutral head position (0°). The head was then passively guided to 30° of flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. After each movement, participants actively returned to the perceived neutral position under both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. The repositioning error was defined as the angular difference between the actual and the perceived 0° position
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 7 Oct 2026.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Dynamic Tape, Swiss Ball and Dumbbells in people with Upper Crossed Syndrome, run by China Medical University Hospital at 1 site in Taiwan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 7 Oct 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Taiwan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Posture (CVA and SSA and Kyphosis Angle) (time frame: Participants were assessed at time points: prior to the intervention (baseline), immediately three weeks after the intervention, and at a one-month follow-up.). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 7 Oct 2026.