Association Of Forward Head Posture, Toe Grip Strength And Dynamic Balance With Disability In Chronic Low Back Pain: A Cross - Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) affects an estimated 452.8 million people globally and is a leading contributor to disability. Forward head posture (FHP) may contribute to compensatory lumbopelvic changes. At the same time, toe grip strength may act as a distal postural stabiliser, and dynamic balance may be impaired in individuals with CLBP. Materials and Methods: Twenty-nine individuals with CLBP aged 40–60 years who met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled. Craniovertebral angle (CVA) was measured using Kinovea-based photogrammetry to assess FHP, toe grip strength was measured using a pinch gauge dynamometer, and dynamic balance was assessed using the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test. Functional disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.