Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER
Authors
1
Clinical Research Development Center, Rofeideh Rehabilitation Hospital, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Pediatric Neurorehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation
2
Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3
Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. University Institute of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.
4
Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran. Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
5
Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Science, Tehran, Iran.
6
Mathematics Department, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran
10.22038/abjs.2025.86598.3935
Abstract
Objectives: Forward head posture is one of the most prevalent postural disorders affecting the head and neck region, assessed through the measurement of the craniovertebral angle (CVA). The selection of an appropriate tool for quantifying this angle is of particular importance. The primary aim of the present study was to investigate the reliability of the Image J software to evaluate the CVA in participants with and without neck pain.
Methods: The study included twenty participants with neck pain and twenty without. Markers were placed on the tragus of the ear and the C7 spinous process. Three images were taken from the dominant side while seated, with two-hour and one-week intervals, and analyzed using Image J software to measure the CVA.
Results: The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) values for within and between-day reliability in both groups ranged from 0.89 to 0.94. The Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) values ranged from 0.92 to 1.02 degrees, while the Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) values ranged from 2.56 to 2.84 degrees. Additionally, the absolute Technical Error of Measurement (TEM) was determined to range from 0.91 to 1.06 degrees, while the relative Technical Error of Measurement (rTEM) ranged between 2.13% and 2.42%.
Conclusions: The Image J software is an appropriate tool to assess the CVA in participants with or without neck pain, demonstrating good to excellent reliability.
Level of evidence: III
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