Assessment
As with all conditions managing postural abnormalities or problems begins with a thorough assessment.
You can expect the assessment phase of management to involve:
- A thorough discussion of your regular postures at work and play and any symptoms that may be arising during those positions
- Physical examination of the spine, postural control and flexibility
- Discussion of the role of postural alignment and education as to how to begin to correct posture
- An initial plan to begin treatment
Treatment
Postural rehabilitation involves exercises. These may include exercises such as:
- Stretching tight joints and muscles, like the hip flexors (hips), hamstrings, pectoral (chest) muscles and upper back.
- Strengthening anti-gravity muscles around the shoulder blades, back, buttocks and abdomen.
- Strengthening core muscles that hold good joint position under load (e.g. lifting) and reduce fatigue.
- "Resetting" the brain's sense of normal position. Increasing postural awareness.
Rehabilitation
Along with increasing awareness of posture, ongoing exercise programs are very important to address postural problems. Rehabilitation may include:
- Clinical Pilates
- Strength or resistance training
- Stretching
- Regular or consistent general exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling
- Home based exercises
- Attention to work place ergonomics and general postural awareness
