Association of Forward Head Posture and Hand Grip Strength in Young Adults with Prolonged Screen Exposure

Abstract

Background and Objective: Forward Head Posture (FHP) has become one of the most common postural
deviations among young adults due to prolonged use of smartphones, laptops, and other digital devices.
Sustained screen exposure often leads to poor cervical posture, which may affect upper limb function and
muscular performance. Hand Grip Strength (HGS) is a simple and reliable indicator of upper extremity
muscle function and overall neuromuscular health. However, limited evidence is available regarding the
association between Forward Head Posture and Hand Grip Strength in young adults with prolonged screen
exposure. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of Forward Head
Posture and determine its association with Hand Grip Strength among young adults with prolonged screen
exposure.
Methods: A correlational study was conducted in the Department of Physiotherapy, Pacific Medical
College and Hospital, Udaipur. A total of 150 young adults aged 18–40 years with a minimum of 4 hours
of daily screen exposure were recruited using convenience sampling. Forward Head Posture was assessed
using the Postural Observation Method and Head-to-Wall Distance Test, while Hand Grip Strength was
evaluated using a hand gripper. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic information,
screen-use habits, and musculoskeletal symptoms. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the
association between Forward Head Posture and Hand Grip Strength, with statistical significance set at p
< 0.05.
Results: The findings demonstrated a high prevalence of Forward Head Posture among participants, with
moderate FHP being the most common category. A significant negative association was observed between
the severity of Forward Head Posture and Hand Grip Strength, indicating that participants with greater
postural deviation exhibited lower grip strength. Prolonged screen exposure was also associated with
increased reports of neck pain, neck stiffness, shoulder discomfort, headaches, fatigue, and hand
weakness, highlighting the impact of poor posture on musculoskeletal health.
Conclusion: The study concludes that Forward Head Posture is highly prevalent among young adults
with prolonged screen exposure and is significantly associated with reduced Hand Grip Strength. These
findings emphasize the importance of maintaining proper posture, following ergonomic practices, and
promoting healthy screen-use habits to reduce musculoskeletal problems and preserve upper limb
function. Early identification of postural deviations and timely preventive strategies may help improve
functional health and reduce the long-term effects of prolonged screen exposure.