Effects of Biofeedback-Guided Training on Muscle Strength and Postural Alignment in Upper Cross Syndrome.
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age25-45
SponsorRiphah International University
About this trial
This randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of biofeedback-guided training versus conventional therapy on muscle strength and postural alignment in patients with Upper Cross Syndrome. The study includes adults aged 25-45 years meeting diagnostic criteria for UCS, such as weak deep cervical flexors, restricted cervical ROM, forward head posture, increased thoracic kyphosis, and chronic neck pain \>3 months. Participants are divided into two groups: Group A biofeedback training and Group B conventional therapy, receiving 12 sessions over 4 weeks ,3sessions/week. Assessments are conducted at baseline, post-1st session, and weekly intervals using standardized measures.The study aims to compare the efficacy of biofeedback-guided training in improving strength and posture in UCS patients.
Eligibility criteria
This trial does not accept healthy volunteersQualifiers
• Adults aged 25-45 years with both genders.
Reduced strength of deep cervical flexors = unable to maintain pressure beyond 22-24 mm Hg (assessed via cranio-cervical flexion test).
Limited cervical range of motion (Flexion: < 80 degrees, Extension: < 70 degrees, Rotation: < 90 degrees on both sides, Lateral Flexion: < 20 degrees)
Postural deviations: forward head posture (CVA <50 degrees), increased thoracic kyphosis (via flexi curve >45 degrees).
Disqualifiers
• History of recent neck surgery or injury.
Patients with neurological disorders affecting muscle tone.
Involvement in other physical therapy programs focused on UCS.
Diagnosed musculoskeletal condition that could impact muscle performance.
Trial design
Design model
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
Bio feedback training
Other interventionHot Pack: Applied for 10 minutes, mild warmth sensation to relax muscles and prepare for exercise. 1\. BPU (Biofeedback Pressure Unit): performed at 5 pressure levels (22, 24, 26, 28, 30 mmHg). Each level involves a 10-second hold, with 30 seconds rest between levels. Targeted muscles: * Deep Cervical Flexors (Capitus Longus, Capitus Colli). * Rhomboids * Trapezius Total duration (BPU): 20 minutes/session, performed 3 times/week.
conventional exercise program
Other interventionHot Pack: Applied for 10 minutes, mild warmth sensation to relax muscles and prepare for exercise. EXERCISE PROGRAM: * 1\. Supine: Neck curl with Chin Tucks (Deep Cervical Flexors Capitus Longus, Capitus Colli): 10 reps/session, holding each for 5 seconds. * 2\. Sitting: Chin tuck with Head pushing against palm. * 3\. Chin Up (Middle and Lower Trapezius): 10 reps/session, holding each for 5 seconds. * 4\. Scapular Squeezes (Rhomboids): 2-3 sets of 10 reps/session, holding each for 5 seconds• 5. Doorway Pectoral Stretch (pect major) 2-3 reps, 30 sec hold (36)Total duration: 20 minutes/session, performed 3 times/week.
Treatment groups
56 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groupsGroup A: Experimental GroupExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Group B: Control GroupActive comparator 1 intervention
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
cranio-cervical flexion test
craniocervical flexion test to measure strength and endurance of Deep cervical flexors. it ranges from 20 mm of hg to 30 mm of Hg based on increased strength
Time frame
baseline to 4th weekSecondary outcomes
1
NPRS
Pain is measured through NPRS scale. it has 11 level points from 0-10. where 0 indicate no pain and 10 indicate un-bearable pain
Time frame
total of 5 measurements taken at baseline, at the end of 1st, 2nd , 3rd and 4th week2
NECK DISABILITY INDEX
neck disability is measured through NDI. it has score from 0-50. where 0 indicate low disability and 50 indicate total disability
Time frame
total of 5 measurements taken at baseline, at the end of 1st, 2nd , 3rd and 4th week3
cervical Flexion
A goniometer is a reliable and valid tool for assessing joint angles. cervical flexion is mesaured when the chin tries to touch the chest. it ranges from o-40 degrees.
Time frame
baseline to 4th week4
cervical Extension
A goniometer is a reliable and valid tool for assessing joint angles. cervical extension is mesaured when the person tries to look up to the roof as max as he/she can go. it ranges from 0-70 degrees.
Time frame
baseline to 4th weekSponsors and contacts
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Source ClinicalTrials.gov