What Is Forward Head Posture?
Forward Head Posture is a postural pattern in which the head rests ahead of the shoulders when viewed from the side. This position changes how the neck, upper back, and surrounding muscles share load during sitting, standing, or movement. The pattern may develop gradually through repeated screen use, reading, driving, or other sustained positions.
Quick Facts About Forward Head Posture
Category
Postural pattern
Used for
Posture assessment and correction planning
Common confusion
Confused with cervical lordosis
Also called
Text neck, Forward Head Posture Syndrome
Often discussed with
Posture Correction, Neck Pain Treatment
Key Takeaways About Forward Head Posture
- The head sits forward relative to the shoulders.
- Daily habits can reinforce the position over time.
- It is not the same as cervical lordosis.
How Forward Head Posture Works
Forward Head Posture describes the relationship between the head, neck, and shoulders during a side-view posture check. A clinician observes whether the head sits ahead of the shoulder line and considers how the upper back and neck respond. The position may appear during standing, sitting, walking, or task-specific movement.
Related glossary terms: Cervical Lordosis, Kyphosis, Ergonomic Assessment.
Assessment often combines visual observation with movement checks. The clinician may compare relaxed posture with active correction to see how easily the head returns toward a more balanced position. Cervical lordosis refers to the inward curve of the neck, so the two terms describe related but different features. Posture correction may address the position of the head, shoulder control, and habits that reinforce the pattern.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Newnan team
When we assess Forward Head Posture, we observe the head and shoulder relationship during relaxed standing and useful movements. We also consider neck and upper-back motion, then connect those findings to the goals of Posture Correction. Our team looks for patterns that change with active positioning, not only a single still image.
Forward Head Posture in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person who works at a laptop may gradually bring the head toward the screen while the shoulders round forward. During a Posture Correction visit at Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Newnan, the assessment can examine that seated pattern and compare it with relaxed standing posture.
Related Services
Related Terms
Cervical Lordosis
Cervical Lordosis is the natural inward curve of the neck portion of the spine. This curve…
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is an exaggerated outward curve of the upper spine that creates a rounded or hunched…
Ergonomic Assessment
An Ergonomic Assessment is a structured review of how a person’s posture, movements, workspace, and daily…
Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Newnan
Have Questions About Forward Head Posture?
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