Forward Head Posture

Forward head posture describes a head position that appears forward of the torso when viewed from the side. The Korean everyday term literally compares the appearance to a turtle neck. The visible posture alone is not a diagnosis.

Visible head position

The ear may sit in front of the shoulder and the chin may appear to project forward. Screen use is often discussed alongside this posture, but one habit cannot explain every person’s posture or discomfort.

Cervical curve and round shoulders

A reduced cervical lordosis describes the curve of the neck as seen on medical imaging. Forward head posture describes an external appearance. The two may be discussed together, but they are not interchangeable.

Round shoulders refers to shoulders that appear to sit forward. It can occur alongside forward head posture while still describing a different feature.

Posture and discomfort

Research has examined associations between head posture and neck pain, but posture alone does not identify the cause of pain. Some people have a forward head position without pain, while others have pain without that appearance.

Use in esthetics

An esthetic service may use forward head posture as a label for care around the neck and shoulders. Hands-on esthetic care works with skin and surrounding soft tissue. It is not treatment that realigns the cervical spine.

Sudden arm numbness, weakness, severe headache, or pain after an injury needs medical assessment.

Related terms

• Round shoulders: Shoulders that appear to sit forward.
• Rounded back: A common description for a curved upper back.
• Scapula: The shoulder blade.