NCT07577492 Cervical Position Sense, Core Stability, and Postural Balance in University Students With Upper Crossed Syndrome
| NCT ID | NCT07577492 |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | — |
| Sponsor | Istinye University |
| Condition | Upper Crossed Syndrome |
| Study Type | OBSERVATIONAL |
| Enrollment | 48 participants |
| Start Date | 2026-04-20 |
| Primary Completion | 2026-05-25 |
Eligibility & Interventions
Eligibility Fast-Check
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What to Expect as a Participant
This is an observational study. You will not receive an experimental treatment; researchers will collect data based on your existing condition or standard treatment.
This trial targets 48 participants in total. It began in 2026-04-20 with a primary completion date of 2026-05-25.
⚠ This information is for research awareness only. Always consult your physician before joining any clinical trial. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
Brief Summary
This study aims to investigate the relationship between cervical position sense, core stabilization, and postural balance in university students aged 18-30 years with Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS). Upper Crossed Syndrome is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by muscle imbalance, including weakness of the deep cervical flexors, middle and lower trapezius, rhomboids, and serratus anterior, along with tightness of the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, sternocleidomastoid, and pectoralis major and minor. This condition frequently affects university students due to prolonged sitting, extensive computer use, and poor posture. While previous research has focused on discrete components of UCS such as posture correction or pain management, the combined effects of cervical proprioception, core stability, and postural balance remain poorly understood. A total of 48 participants will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups: 24 students diagnosed with Upper Crossed Syndrome and 24 healthy students as a control group. Assessments include cervical joint position error testing, core stabilization endurance tests (Unilateral Hip Bridge Endurance Test and Sahrmann Five-Level Core Stability Test), static balance evaluation using the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), and dynamic balance assessment using the Y-Balance Test. Pain intensity will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). This study will help identify neuromuscular and sensory mechanisms underlying these parameters and support evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to improve postural alignment, reduce musculoskeletal dysfunction, and enhance overall functional performance in this population.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * University students aged 18-30 years. * Diagnosis of Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) confirmed by postural assessment. * Forward Head Posture with Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) less than 49 degrees. * Rounded Shoulder Posture greater than 2.5 cm. * Presence of chronic neck pain. * Impaired cervical position sense. Exclusion Criteria: * History of cervical spine surgery. * Neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease). * Acute musculoskeletal injury to the neck, back, or upper extremities within the past 3 months. * Previous traumatic injuries to the neck or back. * Any diagnosed vestibular or balance disorder. * Visual impairment that affects balance. * Pregnancy. * Participation in another interventional clinical trial within the past 30 days.
Contact & Investigator
Nalan Soydaş Engin, Phd
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Istinye University
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the NCT07577492 clinical trial?
This trial is open to participants of all sexes, aged 18 Years or older, up to 30 Years, studying Upper Crossed Syndrome. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria are listed in the Eligibility Criteria section. Always confirm your eligibility with the research team before applying.
Is NCT07577492 currently recruiting?
Yes, NCT07577492 is actively recruiting participants. Contact the research team at 2433095036@stu.istinye.edu.tr for enrollment information.
Where is the NCT07577492 trial being conducted?
This trial is being conducted at Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye).
Who is sponsoring the NCT07577492 clinical trial?
NCT07577492 is sponsored by Istinye University. The principal investigator is Nalan Soydaş Engin, Phd at Istinye University. The trial plans to enroll 48 participants.