Advanced technology may indicate an evolved society, but some technical advances have caused a devolution of human postural alignments. This postural distortion is a source of humor for cartoonists. One cartoon parodies the evolutionary sequence. It shows a slouched chimpanzee, evolving into a caveman and gradually devolving into a modern man, hunched over his computer in the same posture as the slouched chimpanzee. Poor posture causes muscle imbalances that make you susceptible to injury. It may even affect mood and concentration skills. Posture therapy programs address the issues associated with postural misalignment.
Misconceptions
Some alignment problems result from misconceptions about good posture. A postural therapist must correct this misinformation before prescribing a program. The post-war baby boomers may have been influenced by the military posture. Their fathers might have told them to pull their stomach in, stick their chest out and pull their shoulders back. Engaging the core and abdominal muscles supports good posture, but sticking out the chest so that the ribs pop forward creates upper and mid-back tension. Theories about proper pelvic alignment changed in the later part of the twentieth century. Anyone who exercised in the 1970s might have been advised to "tuck their fannies under," so that they were walking around in a pelvic tilt. Physical therapists Chris K. Kopp and Eric D. Mason of the Jacksonville Florida Premier Physical Therapy Center explain that in the 1980s, a new theory of pelvic alignment developed among northern California rehabilitation specialists. They argued that the neutral spine, which preserves the small lumbar curvature, provides better shock absorption than the chronic pelvic tilt.
Assessment
Postural assessment is the first phase of postural therapy. The therapist observes the client from the front, the back and the sides. He watches his client in the standing and seated positions and observes him in motion. After recording any apparent misalignment, the therapist determines whether past injuries, misconceptions, workplace issues or muscular imbalances caused the problem. The plan of action differs according to the posture therapy method.
Stretch and Strengthen Approach
While past injuries may be the culprit, some posture therapy experts believe that strength and flexibility imbalances between muscle groups also cause postural distortion. These therapists focus on stretching the over-working muscles and strengthening the weaker muscle groups. Some posture therapists use foam rollers for correcting overly tight muscle groups. This is a passive method, which combines the benefits of stretching and massage. A client with tight hip flexors may have pelvic misalignment and gait issues. The therapist would have her lie prone, with her hip flexors against the roller, and hold the position for at least one minute. Since weak gluteal muscles are often paired with tight hip flexors, the therapist may also prescribe butt strengthening exercises.
Movement Pattern Approach
Some posture therapy practitioners use movement patterns, as opposed to stretching and strengthening, to improve posture. The Alexander technique and Feldenkrais method are examples. Proponents of these methods believe that faulty habitual movements cause postural distortion, and that changing these patterns corrects the problem. Mathias Alexander believed that the relationship between the head, the neck, and the spine was essential to overall health and wellness. Many Alexander technique exercises involve correcting upper body position while sitting, standing and walking. Feldenkrais, also called "Awareness Through Movement" is performed on the floor. The therapist guides the client through a series of sequences that emphasize different types of movement patterns. The client uses trial and error to determine the most comfortable and functional patterns. Feldenkrais practitioners believe that this trial and error promotes body awareness, which facilitates postural correction.
Considerations
Researchers have not established a "best" postural therapy method. Instructor skill and client commitment determine the program's safety, efficiency and effectiveness. While some posture therapists adhere to a specific method or philosophy, others use a mixed-bag approach, which incorporates stretching, strengthening and movement patterns. The best method for you is the one that fits your schedule, finances and fitness goals.
