Background: Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a common postural imbalance that often affects individuals,

including college students who may spend extended periods sitting and studying. This syndrome is characterized

by a specific pattern of muscle imbalances and joint dysfunction in the upper body. Understanding the causes,

symptoms, and preventive measures for UCS is crucial for college students to maintain good posture and overall

musculoskeletal health..

Objective: To approximate the prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome among college students and measure

associated neck-related disability and pain.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 300 college students aged 18–25 years from

institutions in Dehradun, India, selected using a convenient sampling technique. Participants were evaluated

using the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and standardized clinical tests for pectoralis

Conclusion: A notable proportion of college students exhibited features of Upper Cross Syndrome. Our findings

emphasize the need for early detection, ergonomic correction, and targeted exercise interventions to control the

burden of postural musculoskeletal disorders in young adults.

Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a commonly reported postural disorder involving altered alignment of the head,

neck, and shoulder girdle. It is associated with a predictable pattern of muscular imbalance, including shortened

pectoral and upper trapezius muscles alongside weakened deep cervical flexors and scapular stabilizers. These

alterations often manifest as forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and increased thoracic curvature,

contributing to neck pain and functional impairment.

It is often observed among college students, primarily attributed to the demanding academic environment that

in life. Assessing its prevalence in college students is therefore essential for guiding preventive and

rehabilitative strategies.

Understanding and addressing Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) prevalence among college students is vital for

their well-being, academic performance, and future occupational health. Prolonged sitting and sedentary

behaviors in the college environment raise concerns about musculoskeletal issues. A study on UCS prevalence

informs targeted preventive measures, contributing valuable insights to existing literature and prioritizing

student health.

To determine the prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome among college students.

Cross-sectional observational study.

Colleges located in Dehradun, India.

300 participants.

Convenient sampling method.

 College students aged 18–25 years

 Enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs

 Congenital or structural postural deformities

1. Neck Disability Index (NDI): Evaluates functional limitations related to neck pain.

2. Visual Analog Scale (VAS): Quantifies perceived neck pain intensity.

3. Special Clinical Tests: Assessment of pectoralis muscle tightness and trapezius muscle weakness using

standardized procedures.

Following informed consent, participants completed the NDI questionnaire and VAS. A physical examination

was then performed to assess pectoralis tightness and trapezius muscle strength. All assessments were conducted

using uniform protocols to ensure consistency and reliability.

weakness, indicating the presence of Upper Cross Syndrome.

Trapezius muscle involvement was observed more frequently than pectoralis tightness. Interpreting the data

reveals several significant findings regarding the prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) among the

sampled student population at Dehradun. The mean Neck Disability Index (NDI) score of 12.2 suggests a

moderate level of neck disability reported by the participants, indicating that they experienced some impairment

in their daily activities due to neck pain or dysfunction.

However, the considerable standard deviation of 10.5 indicates variability in reported disability levels among

the participants, suggesting that the severity of neck disability varied widely within the sample. Similarly, the

mean Visual Analog Scale (VAS) rating of 2.1 reflects a moderate level of neck pain reported by the participants,

with a standard deviation of 1.9 indicating variability in reported pain levels.

UCS indicators in both muscle groups.

These findings are consistent with previous research emphasizing the role of prolonged sitting and screen use in

the development of UCS. Early intervention focusing on posture correction, ergonomic education, and muscle

reconditioning is essential to mitigate long-term consequences.

1. The sample size was small according to this research.

2. The age criteria was limited.

3. The study's sample size and demographic composition may limit the generalizability of the findings to

broader student populations.

underscore the importance of early screening and preventive strategies to address postural deviations and reduce

the risk of chronic musculoskeletal disorders in young adults.

Clinicians and educators should collaborate to promote ergonomic awareness, regular physical activity, and

corrective exercise programs among students to improve postural health and prevent Upper Cross Syndrome.

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