Effect of suboccipital release technique in forward head posture: A comparative study

Abstract

Background: Forward head posture is a postural malalignment. It can lead to increased neck pain and decreased neck mobility. Objective: The purpose of this study was to find added effect of suboccipital release technique with conventional treatment on neck pain, disability, mobility, and craniovertebral angle (CVA) in forward head population. Materials and Methods: Fifty subjects with forward head posture and neck pain were randomly allocated in two groups. Experimental group (Group A) was given myofascial release to suboccipital group of muscles along with conventional treatment and control group (Group B) received conventional treatment. Subjects received treatment three times a week, for 2 weeks. By the end of session, pre- and post-comparison was done for neck pain, disability, range of motion, and CVA. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed with Winpepe software and Primer software using Wilcoxon signed-rank sum test, Paired t-test, and Mann–Whitney rank sum test. Results: Statistical significance was found between and within the group with respect to pain, disability, and cervical range of motion (P < 0.05). CVA had shown significant results only for within the group. Conclusion: This study concluded that suboccipital release technique along with conventional treatment significantly improve neck pain, disability, and range of motion in forward head posture.

Keywords

• craniovertebral angle
• fascia release
• neck mobility
• neck pain