An interventional study of exercise intervention: included three strengthening exercises and two stretching exercises. in Swimmer Shoulder, Forward Head Posture and Posture and Mobility of the Upper Quadrant, sponsored by Fooyin University. Completed at 1 site in Taiwan. Open to participants aged 16 Years to 18 Years. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2026-02-11.
Sponsored by Fooyin University · Not applicable, Interventional, and Treatment
This study is an exercise intervention study, and its findings will help to clarify the effects of exercise on forward head posture and rounded shoulder posture in competitive swimmers. It is expected that the results of this study will assist in ensuring that forward head posture and rounded shoulder posture are taken into consideration when competitive swimmers undergo related exercise training in the future. The purpose of this experiment is purely for academic research and does not constitute a physical examination or a medical diagnosis.
Fooyin University is the lead sponsor of 16 studies on the registry; 4 are open to participants now.
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The intervention group performed an exercise program targeting RSP and FHP, which included three strengthening exercises and two stretching exercises. Each session lasted approximately 50 minutes and was conducted three times per week for a total of eight weeks.
Other: exercise intervention: included three strengthening exercises and two stretching exercises.
The non-intervention group did not receive the above exercise training during the eight-week intervention period; however, the relevant exercise training was provided after the completion of the eight-week experiment.
Strengthening exercises: Based on the relevant literature review, the primary aim of the strengthening exercises was to enhance the strength of the middle trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior muscles, including: Y to W exercise, L to Y exercise and Scapular protraction exercise. Stretching exercises: Based on a review of the relevant literature, stretching exercises primarily target the pectoralis minor and the cervical extensor muscles, including: Pectoralis flexibility and Chin tucks exercise.
forward head angle (FHA)
The forward head angle (FHA) (Degree): The FHA is defined as the angle formed by the intersection of two lines: one vertical line passing through the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), and a second line connecting the C7 spinous process to the tragus of the ear. A larger FHA value indicates a more severe FHP. The examiner photographed the standing posture. The photograph was then analyzed using AutoCAD software (AutoDesk Inc., Sausalito, CA) to calculate the FHA (forward head angle) value.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline posture assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention posture assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
forward shoulder angle (FSA)
The FSA (forward shoulder angle) (Degree): The FSA is defined as the angle formed by the intersection of two lines: one vertical line passing through the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), and a second line connecting the C7 spinous process to the center of the humerus. A larger FSA value indicates a more severe RSP. The examiner photographed the standing posture. The photograph was then analyzed using AutoCAD software (AutoDesk Inc., Sausalito, CA) to calculate the FSA (forward shoulder angle) value.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline posture assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention posture assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
Pectoralis minor index (PMI)
PMI (cm/cm): The examiner used a digital caliper to measure the distance between the inferomedial border of the coracoid process and the fourth rib-sternal junction. This measured distance (cm) was then divided by the participant's height (cm) and multiplied by 100 to obtain the PMI.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
Shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI)
SPADI: Shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) was selected for assessment of shoulder pain and disability. Score from 0 to 10. Higher scores indicate greater pain and disability.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
Scapular upward rotation (SUR) angle
SUR (degree): Measurements were obtained using an ACUMAR™ digital inclinometer. Measurements were taken in three positions: with the arms resting at the sides, with the arms elevated to 60°, and with the arms elevated to 120° . SUR (°) was defined as the angle between the scapular spine and the horizontal reference line.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
Scapular anterior tilt index (SATI)
SATI: The participant lay supine on a bed in a relaxed position. The distance (cm) between the posterior border of the acromion and the bed surface was measured, and this value was then divided by 100 to obtain the SATI.
Time frame: Both groups underwent baseline assessments prior to the intervention and post-intervention assessments at the end of the 8-week training period.
Plan to share: Yes
Supporting information: Study protocol
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