Changes in the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position in the neutral and forward head posture in healthy people

Abstract Background Posture assessment is an important part of clinical physical examination. Head posture changes may be considered in the measurement of the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position. This study aimed to compare the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position in the neutral head posture (NHP) and forward head posture (FHP) in healthy individuals. Methods Forty healthy participants (16 male and 24 female individuals) were included in this study. Using lateral cephalograms, we assessed the craniofacial, craniocervical, and hyoid bone positions based on 27 distinct variables. For comparison between the two groups, the paired-samples t-test was used for normally distributed data. Pearson’s correlation analysis determined correlations between the craniofacial and hyoid bone positions and craniofacial variables in both postures. Results There were significant differences in the craniocervical angles between the NHP and FHP groups. For the hyoid bone position, all parameters except the linear distance between the hyoidale and cv3ia showed differences. Vertical variables of craniofacial morphology, such as the anterior and posterior facial heights, were influenced by head posture. Pearson's correlation coefficients showed that head posture had a significant correlation with craniofacial morphology, particularly for vertical variables. Conclusions This study found a relationship between the craniocervical and hyoid positions and craniofacial morphology. Different head postures can influence the hyoid position and craniofacial morphology. For studies involving these parameters and related conditions, maintaining cervical spine posture is crucial.