Effectiveness of Rib Mobilization Combined With Postural Correction Exercises in Individuals With Upper Crossed Syndrome

Riphah International University

Status: Enrolling

Conditions: Upper Cross Syndrome

Treatments: Other: Postural Correction Exercises Only; Behavioral: Rib Mobilization and Postural Correction Exercises

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07573553

REC/02285 Altamash

Details and patient eligibility

About

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of rib mobilization combined with postural correction exercises in reducing pain, improving cervical posture, and enhancing rib and thoracic mobility among individuals with Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS). A total of 64 participants aged 20-45 years will be recruited and randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (rib mobilization + postural correction) and Group B (postural correction only). Intervention will be provided for 4-6 weeks, three sessions per week. Outcomes will include pain (VAS), cervical posture (inclinometer), and rib/thoracic mobility (tape measure). Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Full description

Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is a common musculoskeletal disorder that arises from sustained poor posture, leading to muscular imbalance and functional impairment in the upper body. The syndrome is characterized by forward head posture, increased cervical lordosis, and thoracic kyphosis caused by tightness in the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and pectoralis muscles, and weakness in the deep cervical flexors, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior. This imbalance not only affects spinal alignment but also restricts rib mobility and thoracic extension, contributing to chronic neck and upper back pain.

Rib mobilization techniques focus on restoring the normal motion of the ribs and thoracic spine, improving chest expansion and flexibility. When combined with postural correction exercises, these interventions may correct alignment, reduce pain, and enhance thoracic mobility. Postural correction exercises aim to stretch overactive muscles and strengthen weakened ones to restore functional balance. Together, these methods are hypothesized to provide superior outcomes compared to postural exercises alone.

Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of either rib mobilization or postural correction in isolation. However, limited evidence exists regarding their combined use for UCS. This study seeks to fill this gap by examining the synergistic effects of both interventions on pain relief, postural correction, and thoracic mobility. Findings may contribute to developing an evidence-based rehabilitation protocol for UCS.

Enrollment: 64 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 20 to 45 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 20 to 45 years
• Forward head posture (craniovertebral angle < 50°)
• Cervical pain or discomfort for ≥4 weeks
• Moderate pain intensity (VAS 3-6)
• Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
• Clinically diagnosed Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS)
• Meets Asian Fitness Society diagnostic criteria for UCS

Exclusion criteria

• History of trauma or surgery to cervical/thoracic spine
• Cervical disc herniation, radiculopathy, or neurological deficits
• Structural deformities (scoliosis, Scheuermann's disease)
• Systemic musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Vestibular, balance, or visual disorders
• Recent similar therapy within 3 months
• Pregnancy or contraindication to manual therapy
• Ongoing use of pain medications or muscle relaxants

Trial design

Primary purpose: Treatment

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: Single Blind

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64 participants in 2 patient groups

Intervention group

Experimental group

Description:

Group receiving Rib Mobilization + Postural Correction Exercises

Treatment:

Behavioral: Rib Mobilization and Postural Correction Exercises

Control group

Active Comparator group

Description:

Group receiving Postural Correction Exercises Only

Treatment:

Other: Postural Correction Exercises Only