Comparative Analysis of Artificial Intelligence-Generated and Studio-Based Reformer Pilates Interventions for Forward Head Posture

Not Applicable

Completed

• Conditions: Posture; Neck Disorder

• Registration Number: NCT07205835
• Lead Sponsor: Uskudar University

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.

Detailed Description

Not available

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2024-11-01
• Primary Completion: 2024-11-05
• Study Completion: 2025-01-10
• Status Verified: 2025-09
• Study First Submitted: 2025-09-26
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-09-26
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-09-26
• Study First Posted: 2025-10-03
• Last Update Posted: 2025-10-03

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: COMPLETED
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 40

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

Pregnancy

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Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Change in Craniovertebral Angle	Baseline and after 6 weeks	Craniovertebral angle will be measured using digital photography and goniometric analysis to evaluate postural improvement.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Üsküdar Üniversitesi NP Sağlık Yerleşkesi; Istanbul, Ümraniye, Turkey (Türkiye)