Randomized Controlled Trial on Long's Orthopedics Combined with Functional Training for Upper Crossed Syndrome: Effects on Postural and Functional Indices

Abstract

Objective

This study aims to pilot-test the efficacy of Long's orthopedics combined with thoracic and back muscle strength training in treating upper crossed syndrome (UCS).

Methods

A total of 60 UCS participants from Chongqing Liangjiang New Area Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital (January 2023–January 2024) were randomly assigned into two groups (30 per group). The experimental group received Long's orthopedics plus strength training, while the control group received back massage plus strength training. Both groups were treated once every other day for 2 weeks.

Results

The experimental group demonstrated a significantly higher total treatment response rate (p < 0.05). For biomechanical outcomes, both groups showed reduced forward head angle (FHA) and forward shoulder angle (FSA) posttreatment compared with baseline, with the experimental group exhibiting greater reductions in FHA (1.766°, p < 0.05) and FSA (3.067°, p < 0.05). Regarding clinical scales, after 2 weeks, both groups experienced decreases in neck pain and disability scale (NPAD) and neck disability index (NDI) scores (p < 0.05), with the experimental group showing larger reductions in NPAD (2.867 scores, p < 0.05) and NDI (1.967 scores, p < 0.05). Additionally, Fugl–Meyer assessment (FMA) scores for cervical mobility improved significantly in both groups (p < 0.05), with the experimental group achieving a greater increase (8.133 scores, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Long's orthopedics combined with thoracic back muscle strength training may offer short-term benefits for UCS by improving posture, reducing pain, and enhancing mobility. Further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up are warranted to confirm the long-term efficacy and sustainability of outcomes.

Trial registration

International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Registry (ITMCTR2025000426). http://itmctr.ccebtcm.org.cn/zh-CN/UserPlatform/ProjectView?pid=c8dad3b4-a5ea-4c2e-ba3a-e53ea2245d76

Keywords

upper crossed syndrome long's orthopedics traditional chinese medicine (TCM)integrative medicine complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)chronic pain management thoracic and back muscle strengthening training

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