1*Final Year Student, Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad
2Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatric Neurosciences, Krishna College of Physiotherapy, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad-415539
Corresponding Author: saniyagavade1717@gmail.com
Background: When working with cameras and lenses, professional photographers frequently adopt lengthy static positions, which puts them at risk for postural abnormalities. Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS) is largely caused by shooting with a forward head posture and rounded shoulders. Tightness in the pectoral and upper trapezius muscles, along with weakness in the deep neck flexors and scapular stabilizer, are the hallmarks of Upper Crossed Syndrome. The nature of photography work necessitates prolonged trunk inclination, shoulder elevation, and neck flexion. The cervical and upper thoracic spines are under more mechanical stress as a result of these incorrect postures. Photographers eventually experience musculoskeletal pain, discomfort, and decreased functional effectiveness as a result. Professional photographers frequently overlook posture assessment despite the work risk. Chronic neck and shoulder diseases can be avoided with early detection of UCS through appropriate evaluation. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate professional photographers for Upper Crossed Syndrome in order to support occupational health and performance.
Methods: The observational study was conducted in Karad. The study was done to assist upper cross syndrome in professional photographers. Prior to conducting the survey, the ethical committee approval was made. Patient selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. With permission of 100 professional photographers participating in this study and result was obtained with the help of statistician.
Result: After evaluating the postural and muscular imbalances of 100 professional photographers, 59% of them were found to have Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS). These people frequently exhibited thoracic kyphosis, rounded shoulders, and forward head posture.
Conclusion: The study revealed that 59% of professional photographers exhibited clinical features consistent with Upper Crossed Syndrome, indicating a high prevalence in this occupation. Key contributing factors include poor posture habits, repetitive arm use, forward head posture, and prolonged camera handling. These findings emphasize the need for early intervention through ergonomic education, targeted strengthening, postural training, and preventive physiotherapy to reduce musculoskeletal strain and improve work performance.
Keywords: Professional Photographer, forward head posture, shoulder pain and neck pain, upper trapezius tightness, upper cross syndrome
How to cite this article: Gavade SS, Kadam N. Assessment of Upper Cross Syndrome in Professional Photographers. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(13s): 922-927. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.13s.104.
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None