Can walking improve forward head posture? A narrative review.

Abstract

Background: Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural deviation that has become increasingly prevalent with the widespread use of smartphones and computers. While corrective exercises targeting neck, scapular, and cervical proprioceptive function are well-established, the potential role of walking-based interventions remain underexplored.

Research question: Can walking - a simple, low-impact, and accessible activity - serve as an effective intervention for correcting FHP?

Methods: A literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases for studies published up to January 2025 that examined the effects of walking-based exercises on FHP. Additional articles were identified by screening the reference lists of relevant studies and reviews.

Results: Seven studies were evaluated. Findings suggest that backward walking may improve cervical posture and balance by enhancing proprioceptive and vestibular input. Preliminary findings also indicate that backward walking with front-loaded weight and walking on inclined or declined surfaces may further benefit postural alignment, although these results are based on limited data and require further validation.

Significance: This narrative review highlights that walking-based interventions, particularly backward walking and its modifications, may serve as simple, low-barrier adjuncts to conventional therapeutic strategies for FHP. These interventions are easily integrated into daily routines and may contribute to scalable, sustainable solutions for posture correction. Further high-quality research is needed to establish optimal exercise protocols, assess long-term efficacy, and explore applicability in diverse populations.