PREVALENCE OF UPPER CROSS SYNDROME AMONG TAILORS

Abstract

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) is a postural dysfunction characterized by muscular imbalance, including tightness and weakness in the muscle groups of the upper trunk, particularly around the neck, shoulders, upper back, and chest region. Tailors specifically are more likely to experience muscular imbalances due to prolonged sitting, repetitive hand movements, and forward head posture associated with their work. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome among tailors.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2024 to June 2025 among Tailors of Pakistan.

A convenience sampling technique was used, and a total of 197 participants were selected as the sample size according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, determined using the Rao-Soft sample size calculator, with a 9% margin of error. Data were collected through a self-structured demographics questionnaire. Participants were asked to fill out the Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire. In addition, the Pectoralis Major Tightness Test, Pectoralis Minor Length Tests, Upper Trapezius Length Test, Levator Scapulae Length Test, Deep Neck Flexors Strength Test, and Lower Trapezius Strength Test were performed to assess muscular tightness and weakness.

RESULTS: Results showed that out of 197 tailors,  42.1% had mild disability on the NDI scale. Upper trapezius tightness was the most commonly observed muscular tightness, found in 140 participants, while lower trapezius weakness was the most frequently reported muscle weakness, observed in 111 participants. Hence, the study showed that out of the 197 Tailors, 132 (67%) tailors were found to have Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS), whereas 65 (33%) tested negative.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this study demonstrated a significant association between Upper Cross Syndrome (UCS) and occupational factors such as prolonged working hours, sustained forward head posture, and inadequate ergonomic practices. These factors appear to contribute to the development of muscular imbalances, thereby increasing the prevalence of Upper Cross Syndrome in the tailoring profession.