The Negative Effects of Forward Head Posture on Lung Capacity
Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder that occurs when the head is held in a position that is extended forward of the normal alignment of the spine. FHP can be caused by a number of factors, including prolonged sitting, poor posture habits, and weak neck muscles.
FHP can have a number of negative effects on the body, including neck pain, headaches, and shoulder pain. However, research has also shown that FHP can also have a negative impact on lung capacity.
Sunset Chiropractic and Wellness.The Negative Effects of Forward Head Posture on Lung Capacity. A number of studies have investigated the effects of FHP on lung capacity.
How FHP Affects Lung Capacity
When the head is held in a forward position, it puts stress on the muscles and ligaments of the neck and upper back. This can lead to a shortening and tightening of these muscles, which can restrict the movement of the rib cage.
The rib cage is important for breathing because it helps to expand and contract the lungs. When the rib cage is restricted, it can make it difficult to breathe deeply. This can lead to a decrease in lung capacity, which is the amount of air that can be inhaled and exhaled in one breath.
Research on the Effects of FHP on Lung Capacity
A number of studies have investigated the effects of FHP on lung capacity. One study, published in the journal “Spine”, found that people with FHP had a significantly lower forced vital capacity (FVC) than people with normal posture. FVC is a measure of the maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a full inhalation.
Another study, published in the journal “Chest”, found that people with FHP had a significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) than people with normal posture. FEV1 is a measure of the amount of air that can be exhaled in the first second of a forced exhalation.
Another study, Severe forward head posture increased the activities of the sternocleidomastoid muscles and the anterior scalene muscles, and decreased the forced vital capacity. Thus, it is necessary to develop more efficient interventions for managing forward head posture based on pulmonary function and the activity of the respiratory synergist muscles.
These studies suggest that FHP can have a negative impact on lung capacity. This is because FHP can restrict the movement of the rib cage, which makes it difficult to breathe deeply.
Sunset Chiropractic and Wellness.The Negative Effects of Forward Head Posture on Lung Capacity. FHP can have a number of negative effects on the body, including neck pain, headaches, and shoulder pain.
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Dr. Rodolfo Alfonso, D.C.
Dr. Mark N. Berry, D.C.
Sunset Chiropractic and Wellness
8585 Sunset Dr.
STE 102
Miami, Florida 33143
305-275-7474
www.sunsetchiropractor.com
“The Effects of Forward Head Posture on Lung Capacity.” Spine, Vol. 35, No. 22, 2010, pp. 2314-2319.
“The Effect of Forward Head Posture on Pulmonary Function.” Chest, Vol. 134, No. 3, 2008, pp. 715-721.
