Changes in the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position in the neutral and forward head posture in healthy individuals: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

Posture assessment is an important part of clinical physical examination. Head posture changes should be considered in the measurement of the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position.

Objective

To compare the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position in the neutral head posture (NHP) and forward head posture (FHP) in healthy individuals.

Methods

Forty healthy participants (16 men and 24 women) were included in this study. Using lateral cephalograms, we assessed the craniofacial, craniocervical, and hyoid bone positions based on 27 distinct variables. The paired-samples t-test and Pearson's correlation analysis were employed to compare the postures.

Results

Significant differences in the craniocervical angles were noted between the NHP and FHP. For the hyoid bone position, all parameters except one presented differences. Vertical variables of craniofacial morphology were influenced by head posture. Pearson's correlation coefficients showed that head posture was significantly correlated with craniofacial morphology, particularly for vertical variables.

Conclusions

This study identified a relationship between the craniocervical and hyoid positions and craniofacial morphology. These findings suggest that different head postures can influence the hyoid position and craniofacial morphology. Hence, for studies involving these parameters and related conditions, maintaining cervical spine posture is crucial.