Forward Head PostureNCT07523568
Kinesiotaping Versus Corrective Postural Exercises in Treating Forward Head Posture
A study testing Kinesio Taping and Corrective Postural Exercises in people with Forward Head Posture and Neck Pain, run by Deraya University at 1 site in Egypt.
Trial summary
Forward head posture (FHP) is a common condition in which the head is positioned forward relative to the body, leading to muscle imbalance, neck pain, and reduced functional performance. It is frequently associated with prolonged poor posture and can negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, Postural Disorders
- What is being tested?
- Kinesio Taping and Corrective Postural Exercises
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- 1 siteEgypt
- Study dates
- 2 Oct 2025to 2 Mar 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 18 to 40 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Age between 18 and 40 years
- Male and female participants
- Body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 24.9
- Presence of forward head posture with craniovertebral angle (CVA) less than 50 degrees
Who cannot join
- History of previous neck surgery
- Musculoskeletal deformities affecting the neck, shoulder, or spine
- Diagnosed cervical spondylosis or other pathological cervical conditions
- History of trauma to the neck or shoulder
- Presence of neurological disorders
- History of cardiothoracic surgery
- Open wounds in the neck region
- Known allergy to Kinesio tape
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Egypt1 site
Deraya university, faculty of physical therapy
Minya, Menia Governorate
About this study
Official title: Kinesiotaping Versus Corrective Postural Exercises in Treating Forward Head Posture: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Forward head posture (FHP) is a common condition in which the head is positioned forward relative to the body, leading to muscle imbalance, neck pain, and reduced functional performance. It is frequently associated with prolonged poor posture and can negatively affect daily activities and quality of life.
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping and corrective postural exercises in improving forward head posture. A total of 40 participants with forward head posture will be randomly assigned into two groups. One group will receive Kinesio Taping, while the other group will undergo a structured corrective exercise program.
The outcomes of this study will include assessment of craniovertebral angle, deep cervical muscle strength, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility. The results are expected to help determine the most effective treatment approach for managing forward head posture and improving patient outcomes.
Read the detailed description
Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural deviation characterized by anterior displacement of the head relative to the vertical alignment of the body. This condition results in muscular imbalances, including tightness in the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles, along with ضعف in the deep neck flexor muscles. These alterations contribute to neck pain, reduced range of motion, impaired proprioception, and functional limitations.
FHP has been associated with various musculoskeletal disorders such as tension-type headaches, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and myofascial pain syndrome. Prolonged poor posture increases mechanical stress on cervical structures, leading to altered movement patterns and decreased neuromuscular control.
Several therapeutic interventions have been proposed to manage FHP, including corrective exercises, manual therapy, and physical modalities. Corrective exercise programs typically focus on strengthening deep cervical flexors, improving scapular stability, enhancing thoracic mobility, and promoting proper postural alignment. Conventional treatments may also include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), heat therapy, and cervical isometric exercises.
Kinesio Taping (KT) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique widely used in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. It involves applying elastic adhesive tape to the skin to provide support, improve proprioception, reduce pain, and facilitate muscle function without restricting movement.
This randomized controlled trial will compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping versus corrective postural exercises in individuals with forward head posture. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group A will receive Kinesio Taping applied to the shoulder region in repeated cycles, while Group B will undergo a structured corrective exercise program three times per week for four weeks.
Outcome measures will include craniovertebral angle (CVA) to assess postural alignment, deep neck flexor muscle strength using a pressure biofeedback unit, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility using a cervical range of motion device. These measurements will be recorded before and after the intervention.
The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians in selecting effective rehabilitation strategies for individuals with forward head posture.
- Conditions
- Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, Postural Disorders
- Being tested
- Kinesio Taping, Corrective Postural Exercises
- Keywords
- Kinesio Taping, Corrective Exercises, Forward Head Posture
- Medical subject headings
- Neck Pain
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Kinesio TapingOther
Elastic therapeutic tape will be applied to the shoulder and cervical region to facilitate muscle function, improve proprioception, and reduce strain associated with forward head posture. The application will follow a cycle of 72 hours on and 24 hours off.
Corrective Postural ExercisesOther
The exercise program includes deep cervical flexor training, scapular stabilization exercises, thoracic extension exercises, postural correction, and manual therapy techniques. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for four weeks, with progressive intensity.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Kinesio Taping Group | Experimental | Participants in this group will receive Kinesio Taping applied to the shoulder and cervical region to improve posture, reduce muscle tension, and enhance proprioception. The tape will be applied for 72 hours followed by a 24-hour rest period, repeated over the intervention duration. Receives: Other: Kinesio Taping |
| Corrective Exercise Group | Experimental | Participants in this group will perform a structured corrective exercise program aimed at improving postural alignment, strengthening deep cervical flexors, and enhancing scapular stability. Receives: Other: Corrective Postural Exercises |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Craniovertebral Angle (CVA)
Craniovertebral angle will be measured using a universal goniometer to assess forward head posture. Measurements will be taken three times in a standing position, and the average value will be recorded. A value less than 50 degrees indicates forward head posture.
Measured: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Deep Neck Flexor Muscle Strength
Deep neck flexor muscle strength will be assessed using a pressure biofeedback unit. Participants will perform controlled head nodding while maintaining pressure at 40 mmHg. The ability to sustain contraction will be recorded.
Measured: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Cervicocephalic Kinesthetic Sensibility
Cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility will be measured using a Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) device to assess joint position sense and accuracy of head repositioning.
Measured: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted13 Apr 2026
- Study start2 Oct 2025
- Primary completion2 Feb 2026
- Study completion2 Mar 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (6)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Forward Head PostureStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- 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
- Model description
- Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. Group A will receive Kinesio Taping, while Group B will receive a structured corrective exercise program. Each group will be treated separately, and outcomes will be compared between groups after the intervention period.
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Deraya University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07523568
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- DU-FPT-FHP-2026
- Status last verified
- Apr 2026
- First submitted
- 5 Apr 2026
- Last updated
- 13 Apr 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Yang S, Boudier-Reveret M, Yi YG, Hong KY, Chang MC. Treatment of Chronic Neck Pain in Patients with Forward Head Posture: A Systematic Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel). 2023 Sep 22;11(19):2604. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11192604.
PubMed 37830641Macwan, Noel Samuel, and Shakshi Devendra Patel. "Comparing Kinesio Taping Versus Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Forward Head Posture-A Study Protocol for RCT."
Deniz, Yasemin, Esra Pehlivan, and Eda Cicek. "Biomechanical Variances in the Development of Forward Head Posture." Physical Therapy Korea 31.2 (2024): 104-113.
Augustsson SR, Reinodt S, Sunesson E, Haglund E. Short-term effects of postural taping on pain and forward head posture: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2022 Feb 19;23(1):162. doi: 10.1186/s12891-022-05083-5.
PubMed 35183157Ali, E. A., Abd El-Nabie, W. A., & Elmeniawy, G. H. (2025). Kinesio Taping and Postural Correction: Effects on Kyphosis, Chest Expansion, and Quality of Life: Randomized Clinical Trial.
Ali, Esraa A., Walaa A. Abd El-Nabie, and Gehan H. Elmeniawy. "Kinesio Taping and Postural Correction: Effects on Kyphosis, Chest Expansion, and Quality of Life: Randomized Clinical Trial." (2025).
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 13 Apr 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Kinesiotaping Versus Corrective Postural Exercises in Treating Forward Head Posture: A Randomised Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07523568
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- DU-FPT-FHP-2026
- Conditions
- Forward Head Posture, Neck Pain, Postural Disorders
- Keywords
- Kinesio Taping, Corrective Exercises, Forward Head Posture
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Deraya UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 2 Oct 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 2 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 2 Mar 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 13 Apr 2026 (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.
Forward head posture (FHP) is a common condition in which the head is positioned forward relative to the body, leading to muscle imbalance, neck pain, and reduced functional performance. It is frequently associated with prolonged poor posture and can negatively affect daily activities and quality of life.
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping and corrective postural exercises in improving forward head posture. A total of 40 participants with forward head posture will be randomly assigned into two groups. One group will receive Kinesio Taping, while the other group will undergo a structured corrective exercise program.
The outcomes of this study will include assessment of craniovertebral angle, deep cervical muscle strength, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility. The results are expected to help determine the most effective treatment approach for managing forward head posture and improving patient outcomes.
Detailed description
Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent postural deviation characterized by anterior displacement of the head relative to the vertical alignment of the body. This condition results in muscular imbalances, including tightness in the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles, along with ضعف in the deep neck flexor muscles. These alterations contribute to neck pain, reduced range of motion, impaired proprioception, and functional limitations.
FHP has been associated with various musculoskeletal disorders such as tension-type headaches, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and myofascial pain syndrome. Prolonged poor posture increases mechanical stress on cervical structures, leading to altered movement patterns and decreased neuromuscular control.
Several therapeutic interventions have been proposed to manage FHP, including corrective exercises, manual therapy, and physical modalities. Corrective exercise programs typically focus on strengthening deep cervical flexors, improving scapular stability, enhancing thoracic mobility, and promoting proper postural alignment. Conventional treatments may also include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), heat therapy, and cervical isometric exercises.
Kinesio Taping (KT) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique widely used in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. It involves applying elastic adhesive tape to the skin to provide support, improve proprioception, reduce pain, and facilitate muscle function without restricting movement.
This randomized controlled trial will compare the effectiveness of Kinesio Taping versus corrective postural exercises in individuals with forward head posture. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: Group A will receive Kinesio Taping applied to the shoulder region in repeated cycles, while Group B will undergo a structured corrective exercise program three times per week for four weeks.
Outcome measures will include craniovertebral angle (CVA) to assess postural alignment, deep neck flexor muscle strength using a pressure biofeedback unit, and cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility using a cervical range of motion device. These measurements will be recorded before and after the intervention.
The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians in selecting effective rehabilitation strategies for individuals with forward head posture.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- Participants will be randomly assigned into two parallel groups. Group A will receive Kinesio Taping, while Group B will receive a structured corrective exercise program. Each group will be treated separately, and outcomes will be compared between groups after the intervention period.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Kinesio Taping Group | Experimental | Other: Kinesio TapingParticipants in this group will receive Kinesio Taping applied to the shoulder and cervical region to improve posture, reduce muscle tension, and enhance proprioception. The tape will be applied for 72 hours followed by a 24-hour rest period, repeated over the intervention duration. |
| Corrective Exercise Group | Experimental | Other: Corrective Postural ExercisesParticipants in this group will perform a structured corrective exercise program aimed at improving postural alignment, strengthening deep cervical flexors, and enhancing scapular stability. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Age between 18 and 40 years
- Male and female participants
- Body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 24.9
- Presence of forward head posture with craniovertebral angle (CVA) less than 50 degrees
Key exclusion criteria (8 listed)
- History of previous neck surgery
- Musculoskeletal deformities affecting the neck, shoulder, or spine
- Diagnosed cervical spondylosis or other pathological cervical conditions
- History of trauma to the neck or shoulder
- Presence of neurological disorders
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Kinesio TapingElastic therapeutic tape will be applied to the shoulder and cervical region to facilitate muscle function, improve proprioception, and reduce strain associated with forward head posture. The application will follow a cycle of 72 hours on and 24 hours off. | Other | Kinesio Taping Group |
| Corrective Postural ExercisesThe exercise program includes deep cervical flexor training, scapular stabilization exercises, thoracic extension exercises, postural correction, and manual therapy techniques. Sessions will be conducted three times per week for four weeks, with progressive intensity. | Other | Corrective Exercise Group |
Primary outcome
Craniovertebral Angle (CVA)
Time frame: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Craniovertebral angle will be measured using a universal goniometer to assess forward head posture. Measurements will be taken three times in a standing position, and the average value will be recorded. A value less than 50 degrees indicates forward head posture.
Deep Neck Flexor Muscle Strength
Time frame: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Deep neck flexor muscle strength will be assessed using a pressure biofeedback unit. Participants will perform controlled head nodding while maintaining pressure at 40 mmHg. The ability to sustain contraction will be recorded.
Cervicocephalic Kinesthetic Sensibility
Time frame: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention
Cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility will be measured using a Cervical Range of Motion (CROM) device to assess joint position sense and accuracy of head repositioning.
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 13 Apr 2026.
- Background: PubMed 37830641Yang S, Boudier-Reveret M, Yi YG, Hong KY, Chang MC. Treatment of Chronic Neck Pain in Patients with Forward Head Posture: A Systematic Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel). 2023 Sep 22;11(19):2604. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11192604.
- BackgroundMacwan, Noel Samuel, and Shakshi Devendra Patel. "Comparing Kinesio Taping Versus Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Forward Head Posture-A Study Protocol for RCT."
- BackgroundDeniz, Yasemin, Esra Pehlivan, and Eda Cicek. "Biomechanical Variances in the Development of Forward Head Posture." Physical Therapy Korea 31.2 (2024): 104-113.
- Background: PubMed 35183157Augustsson SR, Reinodt S, Sunesson E, Haglund E. Short-term effects of postural taping on pain and forward head posture: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2022 Feb 19;23(1):162. doi: 10.1186/s12891-022-05083-5.
- BackgroundAli, E. A., Abd El-Nabie, W. A., & Elmeniawy, G. H. (2025). Kinesio Taping and Postural Correction: Effects on Kyphosis, Chest Expansion, and Quality of Life: Randomized Clinical Trial.
- BackgroundAli, Esraa A., Walaa A. Abd El-Nabie, and Gehan H. Elmeniawy. "Kinesio Taping and Postural Correction: Effects on Kyphosis, Chest Expansion, and Quality of Life: Randomized Clinical Trial." (2025).
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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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 Kinesio Taping and Corrective Postural Exercises in people with Forward Head Posture and Neck Pain, run by Deraya University at 1 site in Egypt.
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 8 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 13 Apr 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 Egypt. 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?
Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) (time frame: Baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07523568, which also lists 6 linked publications.
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 13 Apr 2026; AzTrials last refreshed its copy on 29 Oct 2026.