Optimizing the Role of Physiotherapy Through Postural Screening and Corrective Exercises for the Prevention of Forward Head Posture in Adolescents

Abstract

Forward Head Posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder among adolescents that may adversely affect musculoskeletal function, particularly in the neck and shoulder regions. This condition may be influenced by poor postural habits, prolonged digital device use, and daily activities. This Community Service Program (PKM) aimed to conduct early screening for FHP, enhance adolescents’ knowledge of FHP risk factors and preventive measures, and provide simple corrective exercises that could be performed independently. The activity was conducted on July 18, 2026, at SMA Negeri 4 Palembang, targeting male and female students who regularly participated in extracurricular basketball activities. The program consisted of postural screening, health education, demonstrations, and hands-on practice of simple corrective exercises. Knowledge was evaluated using pre- and post-tests, while participants’ exercise skills were assessed through direct observation during practice sessions. The evaluation demonstrated that the participants’ mean knowledge score increased from 38% at pre-test to 95% at post-test, representing a 57-percentage-point improvement. Furthermore, 88% of participants demonstrated an improvement in knowledge exceeding 70% following the educational intervention. Skills assessment demonstrated 100% achievement across all corrective exercise indicators, including Chin Tuck Exercise, Cervical Retraction Exercise, Scapular Retraction Exercise, Wall Posture Exercise, neck muscle stretching, and Pectoral Stretching. These findings indicate that integrating postural screening, education, and simple corrective exercises can effectively enhance adolescents’ knowledge and skills in preventing FHP.