Comparison of Prefrontal Hemodynamic Responses and Balance Control Differences Based on Head Posture and Task Difficulty in Cognitive-Balance Tasks

Sahmyook University38 enrolled

Overview

* Recent studies have shown that individuals with forward head posture (FHP) experience not only impaired balance control but also cognitive deficits. * Using a balance-cognitive dual-task paradigm, this study aims to explore the relationship between balance ability and Prefrontal cortex(PFC) oxygenation levels(△HbO2) in individuals with FHP compared to those with normal head posture(NHP). * By analyzing differences in frontal lobe activation based on task difficulty, this study is expected to provide practical data for designing balance training and cognitive-motor intervention programs tailored to individuals with FHP.

\- This study is a cross-sectional study aiming to investigate the differences in balance ability between individuals with forward head posture (FHP) and those with normal head posture (NHP), as well as the differences in frontal lobe oxygenation levels during a balance-cognitive dual task. Study participants will be assigned to receive two groups: (a) Forward head posture (b) Normal head posture. Each group will perform three balance tasks while simultaneously completing three cognitive tasks. To determine the differences, the primary outcome will assess prefrontal cortex (PFC) hemodynamic response, and the secondary outcome will assess balance ability.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

Conditions

Forward Head Posture Normal Head Posture

Interventions

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 20 YearsMax age: 39 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adults aged 20 to 39 years * Classified as having Forward Head Posture (FHP) or Normal Head Posture (NHP) based on Craniovertebral Angle (CVA) measurement Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with a history of spinal or musculoskeletal trauma or surgery * Individuals who have reported recent neck or shoulder pain

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

The degree of hemodynamic response in the prefrontal cortex (PFC)

Hemodynamic response changes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) will be assessed by measuring variations in oxyhemoglobin (HbO) concentration using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The study will compare HbO concentration changes between the control and experimental groups during cognitive-balance task performance.

Time frame: From enrollment to 2 days

Secondary Outcomes

Balance performance

Static and dynamic balance performance will be assessed using the Good Balance system (Metitur, Finland). The assessment will be conducted on a triangular platform by measuring changes in the center of pressure (COP), regardless of foot position. The results will be reported as variations in COP displacement and velocity. Dynamic balance performance will be assessed using the Four Square Step Test (FSST). Participants will step in four quadrants formed by rods or tape arranged in a cross pattern. The time taken to complete the FSST will be recorded in seconds.