Posture is something that most of us would like to improve, but don’t know where to start. As we well know, it’s more than just sitting up straight and pulling our shoulders back. Posture is the position that your body naturally assumes. To change it is to change the way we function.
Looking at someone’s posture (postural analysis), with a just a little bit of information about how the body functions, can give us some insight into how we can improve and correct posture. Posture not only gives you clues to muscle imbalances and joint dysfunction, but also can predict what injuries the person is likely to suffer in the future if there is no intervention.
Of course, knowing what is “normal” is the starting point. That being said, there is no one that fits the ideal posture. However, it is a good jumping off point in trying to analyze postural imbalances and how to improve function and prevent injuries. Knowing when to intervene and when to leave a “dysfunction”
Is the dysfunction structural (the way the person was formed), or is it functional (the way the person works)? It won’t hurt to try to improve one’s function even if there are structural problems. For instance, the person may have an accentuated curve in their low back. That may not improve dramatically, but strengthening their core muscles (abdominal and low back) will help their overall function and minimize injuries that they may be prone to.
Postural analysis is a prediction of what you would expect to find. There needs to be an evaluation of the person to find out whether or not that prediction is valid. Although not an exact science, postural evaluation can be a very useful tool in improving the way a person functions and to prevent and minimize injuries.
Dr. Hughes is the owner and clinical director of Huntington Health and Healing Center located in Huntington village in Long Island, NY. He practices chiropractic, clinical nutrition and homeopathy. Additionally, the center offers acupuncture, massage therapy, psychotherapy, and life coaching. Call today for a new patient appointment, as availability is limited.
