Correlation of Forward Head Posture with Refractive Error Among Undergraduate Students of Allied Health Sciences in Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar

Abstract

Background: Forward head posture is a common postural deviation among university students and may be influenced by prolonged near-work, poor ergonomics, and visual impairment. Refractive error may contribute to compensatory head-neck positioning adopted to improve visual clarity during academic activities. Objective: To determine the relationship between forward head posture and refractive error among undergraduate students of Allied Health Sciences at Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 332 undergraduate students selected through convenience sampling. Demographic data and visual status were recorded using a structured questionnaire, and forward head posture was assessed through craniovertebral angle measurement using a goniometer. Postural status was categorized as normal, mild forward head posture, or moderate/severe forward head posture. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 20 using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, chi-square testing, odds ratio estimation, and correlation analysis. Results: Forward head posture was identified in 210 students (63.3%), while refractive error was present in 186 students (56.0%). Among students with refractive error, 73.1% demonstrated forward head posture compared with 50.7% among those without refractive error. A significant association was observed between refractive error and forward head posture (chi-square = 17.71, p < 0.001), and students with refractive error had higher odds of postural deviation (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.67-4.19). Craniovertebral angle showed a significant negative correlation with refractive error (r = -0.312, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Refractive error was significantly associated with greater forward head posture among undergraduate students. Combined vision screening, ergonomic education, and postural interventions may help reduce musculoskeletal risk in this population.