Correlation Between Smart Phone Overuse, Craniovertebral Angle, Cervical Muscle Endurance and Temporomandibular Proprioception in Adolescents

Assessing the craniovertebral angle using software program

The study involves capturing a lateral view photo of a child's craniovertebral angle using reflective dots on the tragus and spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebrae. The camera is placed 1.5 meters away from the subject's shoulder level without rotation or tilt. The photographs are then transferred to a computer using software to assess the craniovertebral angle, which is defined as forward head posture with a craniovertebral angle of less than 50º.

Time frame: at baseline

Testing of temporomandibular joint Proprioception

Participants were given detailed instructions on assessment procedures, with a therapist standing in front of them at the same head level. Temporomandibular joint proprioception was measured using the Vernier caliper in all directions, including mouth opening, protrusion, and lateral jaw movements.

Time frame: at baseline

Measuring the Endurance of deep neck flexor muscles

The study involves a 20-pressure biofeedback device inflated to a baseline of 20 mmHg, followed by verbal feedback from the examiner. The subject performs neck flexion movements at different pressure levels (22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 mmHg) with 10 seconds hold at each level and 30 seconds rest between each level. The testing is terminated if the subject cannot hold 10 seconds at specific pressure levels or reaches a maximum level of 30 mmHg.

Time frame: at baseline