Effect of Stretching and Strengthening Protocol on Forward Flexed Posture in Post-Menopausal Women

Background: Forward flexed posture is one of the most common structural change which occurs during menopause due to osteoporosis. Stretching and strengthening of cervical and thoracic spine muscles helps to alter the postural changes and maintain COG. This study thus, aims to see the effectiveness of the structured exercise protocol in post-menopausal women.

Aims and Objective: To study the effectiveness of supervised and non-supervised stretching and strengthening protocol in post-menopausal women with forward posture.

Materials and Methods: A total 40post-menopausal women with forward head posture were selected on the basis of selection criteria. They were randomly allocated in two groups A) Supervised Group= 20, B) Unsupervised Group=20 each. Forward flexed posture was assessed using Occiput to Wall Test and Craniovertebral Angle. Treatment was explained to both the groups. The pre and post measurements of the participants were recorded.

Results: Statistical analysis was performed using the unpaired t test. Occiput to wall test and craniovertebral angle were used as the outcome measures for determining the effect of stretching and strengthening on forward neck posture. Comparing the pre-intervention and post-intervention values of occiput to wall test, a significant difference was seen following administration of protocol (p<0.0001). For craniovertebral angle, a significant difference was seen between pre-intervention and post-intervention values (p<0.0001). Also, it was seen that there was a significantly higher difference in the values of craniovertebral angle and occiput to wall test values in the supervised groups as compared to the unsupervised group.

Conclusion: The current study demonstrated the effect of stretching and strengthening exercise in improving postural kyphosis in post-menopausal women. In addition, all variables of interest showed statistically significant post-treatment improvements in supervised group than unsupervised group.