COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF ELDOA VERSES UPPER THORACIC MOBILIZATION AND MOBILITY EXERCISE FOR THE TREATMENT OF FHP

This study will compare the effectiveness of the Elongation Longitudinaux Avec Decoaptation Osteo Articulaire (ELDOA) method and upper thoracic mobilization and mobility exercises in correcting forward head posture (FHP). This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these methods in reducing forward head posture. The total sample size will be 36, with each group consisting of 18 participants. This study will be a randomized clinical trial. Participants who meet the inclusion criteria will be selected through screening and then assessed for outcomes using NPRS, a goniometer, the Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Web Plot Digitizer (WPD) Software. Statistical analysis will be conducted using SPSS version 27.

Study Title Comparative Effectiveness of the ELDOA Method and Upper Thoracic Mobilization and Mobility Exercises in Correcting Forward Head Posture: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a common postural deformity characterized by an anterior positioning of the head relative to the vertical axis of the body. This condition can lead to various musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain, reduced range of motion, and increased disability. The Elongation Longitudinaux Avec Decoaptation Osteo Articulaire (ELDOA) method and upper thoracic mobilization and mobility exercises are two interventions aimed at correcting FHP. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of these two methods in reducing FHP and associated symptoms.

Objectives The primary objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of the ELDOA method and upper thoracic mobilization and mobility exercises in reducing FHP. Secondary objectives include assessing improvements in pain levels, neck disability, and range of motion.

Study Design This study is a randomized clinical trial.

Participants A total of 36 participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups, each consisting of 18 participants.

Inclusion Criteria

* Adults aged 20-40 years
* Diagnosed with forward head posture
* Able to provide informed consent
* No history of recent neck or upper thoracic surgery

Exclusion Criteria

* Severe musculoskeletal or neurological disorders
* Recent injury to the neck or upper back
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Interventions Group A (ELDOA Method): Participants will undergo the ELDOA method, which involves specific postural exercises designed to create fascial tension and decompress the spine.

Group B (Upper Thoracic Mobilization and Mobility Exercises)\*\*: Participants will receive upper thoracic mobilization techniques combined with mobility exercises aimed at improving posture and reducing FHP.

Outcome Measures

1. Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS): To assess the intensity of pain experienced by participants.
2. Goniometer: To measure the range of motion of the cervical spine.
3. Neck Disability Index (NDI): To evaluate the level of disability associated with neck pain.
4. Web Plot Digitizer (WPD) Software : To analyze and quantify postural changes from photographic data.

Procedure

1. Screening and Baseline Assessment: Participants will be screened for eligibility and baseline measurements will be taken using NPRS, a goniometer, NDI, and WPD.
2. Randomization: Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either the ELDOA group or the upper thoracic mobilization and mobility exercises group.
3. Intervention Period: Both groups will participate in their respective interventions over a period of 8 weeks, with sessions conducted twice a week.
4. Follow-Up Assessments : Outcomes will be reassessed at the end of the intervention period and compared to baseline values.

Statistical Analysis Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize baseline characteristics. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests will be used to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes within groups. Independent t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests will be employed to compare outcomes between the two groups. A significance level of p \< 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Expected Outcomes It is hypothesized that both interventions will result in significant improvements in FHP, pain reduction, and decreased neck disability. However, the study aims to determine if one method is superior in achieving these outcomes.

Ethical Considerations This study will adhere to ethical guidelines for clinical research. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, and the study protocol will be reviewed and approved by an appropriate ethics committee.

Conclusion This randomized clinical trial will provide valuable insights into the comparative effectiveness of the ELDOA method and upper thoracic mobilization and mobility exercises in correcting forward head posture. The findings could inform clinical practice and guide the development of targeted interventions for FHP.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Both males and females.
* Age between 20 to 40 years.
* Patients having complain of neck pain
* Patients having forward head posture
* Patients having limited Cervical range of motion
* Patients having Craniovertebral angle CVA less than 50.
* Pain more than 3 on NPRS scale with FHP

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of whiplash injury within 3 months of examination.
* History of tumor
* History of surgery of cervical or thoracic spine.
* Positive neurological signs
* Congenital deformity
* Patients having pathology and infection in spine.
* Patients having severe osteoporosis