| Development Validity and Reliability of an Application Based on Angle Estimation in Measuring Forward head Position |
| Paper ID : 1033-SPORTCONGRESS (R1) |
| Authors |
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Reza Etekali *1, Behnaz Gangi2, Mohammad Hossein Nasermelli3 1دانشگاه آزاد کرج/دانشکده علوم ورزشی 2دانشگاه آزاد واحد کرج 3دانشگاه ازاد کرج |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Introduction: Forward head posture (FHP) is a prevalent cervical spine misalignment characterized by anterior displacement of the head relative to the trunk. It is linked to musculoskeletal pain, functional limitations, and reduced quality of life. Although radiography is the reference method for assessing FHP, its clinical use is restricted due to cost, limited accessibility, and radiation exposure. Therefore, developing safe and practical alternatives has become necessary. This study aimed to design and evaluate the validity and reliability of a smartphone-based application that estimates forward head posture angle using the craniovertebral method and anatomical landmarks, and to compare its outcomes with a craniovertebral goniometer. (1,2) Methods: Twenty-two healthy male participants aged 25–40 years were recruited. Anatomical landmarks were identified and surface markers were placed accordingly. The craniovertebral angle was then simultaneously measured using the newly developed application and a craniovertebral goniometer. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess concurrent validity between the two methods. Intra-rater and test–retest reliability were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Results: The application showed high repeatability, with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.94 for repeated trials. Single-measure reliability was 0.89, while average-measure reliability reached 0.94, confirming consistent measurement performance. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was observed between application-based and goniometer-based assessments (r = 0.47, p = 0.026), supporting the concurrent validity of the tool. Conclusion:. The developed application demonstrated strong validity and reliability in assessing forward head posture. Given its accessibility, safety, and low cost, it can serve as a practical substitute for conventional tools in clinical, rehabilitative, and sports settings. Moreover, its ease of use makes it suitable not only for professional practice but also for patient self-monitoring and follow-up. (3,4) |
| Keywords |
| Craniovertebral angle, Smartphone application, Forward head posture, validity and Reliability |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
