Prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome Among College Students

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 muscle tightness and trapezius muscle weakness. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.

Results: The mean NDI score was 12.2 ± 10.5, reflecting mild to moderate neck disability, while the mean VAS score was 2.1 ± 1.9. Sixty participants (20%) demonstrated concurrent pectoralis tightness and trapezius weakness, confirming the presence of UCS. Trapezius muscle involvement was more frequently observed (57.6%) compared to pectoralis muscle tightness (20%).

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.