The Comparison of the Efficacy of Online Exercise Prescriptions Delivered Via the Fiziu Digital Physiotherapy Platform and Conventional Paper-Based Exercises in Individuals with Forward Head Posture

This study aimed to compare the effects of a corrective exercise program delivered via the Fiziu Digital Physiotherapy Platform with those delivered through a paper-based exercise program on volunteers with forward head posture (FHP). The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of these programs on joint range of motion (ROM) and craniocervical angle (CVA) in individuals with FHP and to assess the therapeutic efficacy of a consistent exercise regimen. Additionally, the study sought to determine whether there were differences in outcomes between the digital and paper-based methods, particularly in terms of usability and efficiency.

The study utilized an experimental research design, involving a total of 40 participants, with 20 receiving exercises via the Fiziu platform and 20 following paper-based programs. The intervention lasted six weeks, during which time participants' cervical flexion/extension, lateral flexion (right and left), and rotation (right and left) were measured using a goniometer. The CVA, which represents the angle between the head and the cervical region, was also measured, alongside neck function assessed by the Neck Disability Index (NDI).

Measurements were conducted in a seated position. For cervical flexion and extension, the goniometer's fixed arm was aligned vertically with the floor, with the central point on the C7 vertebra's spinous process. The movable arm was positioned at the external auditory meatus. Participants were instructed to perform maximum flexion and extension movements, and the final angle was recorded. Lateral flexion was measured by placing the goniometer's pivot point on C7, the fixed arm parallel to the floor, and the movable arm aligned with the external occipital protuberance. Participants were asked to bring their ears toward their shoulders, and the final angle was noted. Cervical rotation was measured by placing the goniometer on the vertex of the head, with the fixed arm parallel to the floor and aligned with the nose, and the movable arm following the tip of the nose. Participants rotated their heads to the right and left, and the final angles were recorded.

For CVA measurement, participants maintained a neutral neck position. The goniometer's pivot point was placed on C7, with the fixed arm parallel to the floor and the movable arm aligned with the tragus of the ear. The angle between these two points was recorded.

The NDI was used to measure neck function, which evaluates a person's capacity to perform daily tasks across ten categories: pain intensity, lifting, concentration, reading, headaches, self-care, driving, work, sleep, and recreation. Each category is scored from 0 to 5, with higher scores indicating greater disability.