Hodestilling

Hodestilling is the term used in Danish and Norwegian to describe the position or alignment of the head in relation to the spine or body. The word is composed of hod- meaning head and stilling meaning position. In practice, hodestilling refers to the orientation of the head in the three anatomical planes—sagittal, coronal, and transverse—including flexion, extension, lateral tilt, and rotation. The concept is important in medicine, ergonomics, sports, and dentistry, where head posture can affect breathing, airway management, vision, and musculoskeletal load.

In clinical settings, establishing neutral hodestilling is essential during anesthesia and radiology, and for patients with cervical spine injuries to minimize risk of harm. Abnormal head posture can contribute to neck pain, temporomandibular disorders, and impaired airway patency. Clinicians may assess hodestilling during neurological exams, physical therapy, and rehabilitation to monitor progress and guide treatment.

In workplace and daily life, hodestilling is addressed by adjusting desk and monitor height, chair support, and pillow use to maintain a comfortable and neutral head position. Correct hodestilling reduces strain on the neck and upper back and can improve concentration and sleep quality.

Assessment methods include visual observation, goniometry, photogrammetry, and inertial measurement units. Standards for hodestilling vary by clinical discipline and patient age, and guidelines emphasize keeping the head upright with the gaze forward in neutral alignment.