A Comparative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Artificial Intelligence-Generated Reformer Pilates Protocol and a Studio-Designed Reformer Pilates Protocol in Individuals With Forward Head Posture
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Completed
- Sponsor
- Enrollment
- 40
- Locations
- 2
- Primary Endpoint
- Change in Craniovertebral Angle
Study Overview
Brief Summary
Posture is the alignment of body segments. While ideal posture places minimal stress on the joints, poor posture increases joint stress. Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural abnormality characterized by the anterior displacement of the head in the sagittal plane. This condition may lead to muscle imbalances, pain, reduced cervical range of motion (ROM), decreased quality of life, and spinal degeneration.
The most common method for evaluating FHP is the craniovertebral angle (CVA). Causes of FHP include excessive smartphone and computer use, mouth breathing, carrying heavy bags, and rounded shoulders. Cervical stabilization exercises and holistic approaches are recommended for prevention and treatment.
Pilates, developed by Joseph Pilates, especially in its clinical form, has been shown to improve posture, strengthen core muscles, and enhance quality of life. Literature indicates that stretching- and strengthening-based exercise programs targeting FHP positively affect CVA, neck pain, and ROM.
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has gained importance in physiotherapy as a diagnostic and therapeutic support tool. Its potential in generating exercise prescriptions is being explored, though whether AI can replace physiotherapists remains debated.
The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of an AI-generated reformer Pilates protocol and a studio-based reformer Pilates protocol in individuals with FHP. Hypotheses:
H0: The studio-based reformer Pilates protocol has no effect on CVA, ROM, pain, muscle endurance, or quality of life in individuals with FHP.
H1: The studio-based reformer Pilates protocol has a positive effect on these parameters.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Parallel
- Primary Purpose
- Treatment
- Masking
- Single (Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 18 Years to 50 Years (Adult)
- Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
- •Inclusion Criteria:
- •Volunteers aged between 18-50 years
- •Craniovertebral angle less than 54°
- •Ability to participate in exercise sessions twice a week for 6 weeks
- •Willingness to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria
- •History of musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiovascular disorders
- •Previous surgery affecting posture or spine
- •Current participation in another structured exercise program
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Change in Craniovertebral Angle
Time Frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks
Craniovertebral angle will be measured using digital photography and goniometric analysis to evaluate postural improvement.
Secondary Outcomes
No secondary outcomes reported
Investigators
Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Muhammed Fatih Kavak
Asst. Prof.
Uskudar University