Postural Education

By Raneika Bean, MPT

Posture refers to the overall alignment of the various body parts to each other when a person is standing or sitting in a relaxed position. Posture is the result of many underlying processes and tensional relationships throughout the body. The ideal posture is assumed to be when the earlobe, tip of the shoulder, hip joint and outside bump (malleolus) of the ankle all line up on a plumb line. The center of the knee should be slightly in front of that line. This arrangement is viewed as indicating that a persons overall structure is in good mechanical balance. Results of poor posture may include forward head, rounded shoulders, excessive lordosis, tight and weak back muscles, and tight and weak leg muscles. Prolonged positioning in “poor” posture can lead to mechanical problems, dysfunction and pain from structures that are involuntarily stressed.
Causes of poor posture
Injury and muscle guarding
Disease and nutritional state
Habit; lack of awareness of incorrect posture and lack of knowledge of correct posture
Muscle tension and muscle weakness
Muscle Imbalance
Mental attitude and stress
Heredity
Improper shoes
Signs and Symptoms
Tension headaches
Problems with vision can possibly be associated with poor posture
Pelvic pain
Chronic pain can be a result of incorrect posture
Benefits of Physical Therapy
Decrease Pain
Strength and flexibility training
Improve postural alignment
Help regain movement and range of motion
Improve and correct posture
Provide relaxation and stress relieving techniques
Improve balance and coordination
Postural education and safety awareness
Improve body mechanics
Re-education in movement patterns and positions during activities