Effectiveness of a Dental Exercise Protocol in Improving Forward Head Posture: A Case Series in Young Adults

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page :
    By

    Apurva Chatterjee,

  • Ankit Bhargava,

  • Divya Gupta,

  • Shrabasti Chakraborty,

  1. PhD Scholar, Department of Physiotherapy and Diagnostics, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women’s University, Jaipur (Rajasthan), India
  2. Dean & Professor, Department of Physiotherapy and Diagnostics, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women’s University, Jaipur (Rajasthan), India
  3. Project Manager and Editorial Head, Department of Physiotherapy, CBS Publishers & Distributors Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi, India
  4. Spine specialist, Qi Spine Clinic, Jagriti Enclave, Karkardooma, New Delhi, India

Abstract

Background: Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder in young adults, often exacerbated by extended screen time and poor ergonomic practices. Neuromuscular interactions between the cervical spine and mandibular system may contribute to FHP. Objective: This case series investigates the effectiveness of a dental exercise protocol in improving FHP and mandibular function in college-aged individuals. Methodology: Five participants (3 males, 2 females; ages 18–24) with CVA ≤53° underwent a 4-week home-based dental exercise regimen targeting tongue posture, jaw mobility, and neuromuscular integration. Assessments were conducted pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at a 4-week follow-up. Outcome measures included CVA, neck ROM, maximum mouth opening (MMO), mandibular excursions, VAS for tenderness, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). Results: All participants showed significant improvements in CVA, MMO, ROM, mandibular movements, and NDI scores, with benefits maintained or enhanced at follow-up. Conclusion: Dental neuromuscular retraining may serve as an effective adjunct in the management of FHP in young adults.

Keywords: Forward Head Posture, Craniovertebral Angle, Mandibular Exercises, Temporomandibular Joint, Neck Disability Index

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Neuroscience ]

How to cite this article:
Apurva Chatterjee, Ankit Bhargava, Divya Gupta, Shrabasti Chakraborty. Effectiveness of a Dental Exercise Protocol in Improving Forward Head Posture: A Case Series in Young Adults. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Neuroscience. 2025; 15(03):-.
How to cite this URL:
Apurva Chatterjee, Ankit Bhargava, Divya Gupta, Shrabasti Chakraborty. Effectiveness of a Dental Exercise Protocol in Improving Forward Head Posture: A Case Series in Young Adults. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Neuroscience. 2025; 15(03):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjons/article=2025/view=224028


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 25/06/2025
Accepted 14/07/2025
Published 19/08/2025
Publication Time 55 Days


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