Effects of posture correcting exercises on respiratory parameters in individuals with upper crossed syndrome

Background: Upper crossed syndrome (UCS) also referred as Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a condition characterized by muscular imbalance where muscles of the neck and the shoulder girdle experience with weakness and tightness that affects head position, spine, and shoulder girdle. Literature reviewed that FHP has negative impact on respiratory functions. Objective: To study the effects of posture correcting exercises on respiratory parameters in individuals with upper crossed syndrome. Methods: 15 participants with defined upper crossed syndrome fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected who performed pectoralis major and minor, levator scapulae and upper trapezius muscles stretching exercise, middle and lower trapezius strengthening exercise and McKenzie exercise respectively. The aforementioned interventions were provided for 30 minutes per session, five times a week, for 3 weeks. Chest expansion, Peak Expiratory flow rate (PEF) and Acromian-Tragus (A-T) length were assessed using an inch tape, peak flow meter and a steel ruler respectively on the first visit and after completion of 3 weeks exercise protocol. Results: Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 20 and Mann Whitney U Test was used. The results showed statistically significant improvement in Chest expansion (p<0.05) and Peak expiratory flow (p<0.05) post Intervention. Conclusion: There is significant effect of posture correcting exercises on respiratory parameters in individuals with upper crossed syndrome and they may be recommended as effective exercises to improve neck posture as well as respiratory functions in adults with UCS.