Key Takeaway
An 8-week posture correction exercise program significantly reduced neck and shoulder pain and improved posture alignment in office workers.
Summary
This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a structured posture correction exercise program on musculoskeletal pain and postural alignment in office workers with chronic neck and shoulder pain.
Participants in the exercise group performed a daily routine targeting postural muscles including chin tucks, scapular retractions, and thoracic extensions. After 8 weeks, the exercise group showed significant improvements in pain levels, craniovertebral angle (forward head posture), and shoulder protraction compared to controls.
Methods
- Randomized controlled trial
- Office workers with chronic neck/shoulder pain
- 8-week exercise intervention vs control
- Daily posture correction exercises
- Pre/post measurements of pain and posture angles
Key Results
- Significant reduction in neck pain scores
- Significant reduction in shoulder pain scores
- Improved craniovertebral angle (reduced forward head)
- Improved shoulder alignment
- Effects maintained at follow-up
Limitations
- Relatively small sample size
- Single workplace setting
- Short follow-up period
- No blinding possible for exercise intervention