LUMBO-PELVIC HIP ANGLE CHANGES DURING UPRIGHT AND FREE STYLE SITTING IN IT PROFESSIONAL WITH LOWER CROSSED SYNDROME

Background: In the modern workplace, particularly within the Information Technology (IT) sector, sedentary lifestyles have become increasingly prevalent. Prolonged sitting, often in non- ergonomic positions, contributes to a range of musculoskeletal disorders, with Lower Cross Syndrome (LCS) being notably common. LCS is characterized by tightness of the hip flexors and lumbar extensors coupled with weakness of the gluteal muscles and abdominal muscles, resulting in an exaggerated lumbar lordosis and anterior pelvic tilt. Objective: The primary aim of this study is to investigate the changes in the lumbo-pelvic hip angle (LPHA) during upright and free-style sitting in IT professionals diagnosed with Lower Cross Syndrome (LCS). Understanding these alterations is crucial for developing ergonomic strategies and exercise interventions to promote musculoskeletal health among this population. Methods: A convenience sample of 30 IT professionals diagnosed with LCS was recruited. Participants' LPHA was measured using a digital inclinometer and goniometer in two sitting positions: upright sitting and free-style sitting. The mean LPHA values were calculated from three trials in each position. A paired t-test was used to compare the LPHA between the two sitting positions. Results: Significant differences were found in both lumbar angles and pelvic tilt angles between upright and free-style sitting positions. The mean lumbar angle difference was 15.0333° (t = 167.9973, p < 0.000001), and the mean pelvic tilt angle difference was 7.6667° (t = 87.5814, p < 0.000001). These findings suggest that sitting posture significantly affects the LPHA in individuals with LCS. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that free-style sitting significantly alters the lumbo-pelvic hip angle compared to upright sitting, contributing to postural imbalances associated with LCS. These findings underscore the importance of ergonomic interventions and targeted exercise programs to mitigate the adverse effects of prolonged sitting and improve musculoskeletal health among IT professionals. Keywords: Lower Cross Syndrome, Lumbo-Pelvic Hip Angle, Sedentary Lifestyle, IT Professionals, Upright Sitting, Free-Style Sitting, Lumbar Lordosis, Anterior Pelvic Tilt.