Postural Self Check:
This is a very simple way to see if you need to do some basic maintenance of your posture.
Start by standing against a wall and check:
Back of heels touch the wall
Back of calves touch the wall
Buttocks touch the wall
Upper back touch the wall
Back of the head touches the wall
All of these points should touch the wall comfortablely, if you have to strain to touch any one of these points you most likely have some kind of deviation that should be addressed.
Another easy way to check is simply to hang a string with a weight from a door frame or the ceiling. Stand with the string hanging on the side of your body and have someone take a photo so you can see where the string is in relation to your body allignment. Refer to the following pictures for comparison.
Neutral -
3 Common Types of Postural Deviation:
1.Lordosis - commonly refered to as "sway back" Defined as excessive posterior(back) and anterior(front) curvature of the lumbar (lower back) spine.
2.Kyphosis - commonly refered to as "hunch back" Defined as an excessive posterior (back) and anterior (front) curvature of the thoracic (upper back) spine.
3.Scoliosis - commonly referd to as "twisted spine" Defined as excessive lateral (to the side) curvature of the spinal column.
Proper posture (static and dynamic) ensures that the muscles of the body are optimally aligned in proper length-tension relationships for efficient functioning. This allows for effective absorption and distribution of forces throughout the kinetic chain as well as optimum neuromuscular efficiency.
* Static: The alignment and maintenance of body segments in certain positions. Examples include standing, sitting, and lying.
* Dynamic: Pertaining to body alignment during motion. Examples include walking and running.
Posture should be the first thing addressed in any fitness program to allow for correct movement patterns and to prevent reinforcing incorrect movement patterns that have developed.
While extensive posture manipulation is beyond the scope of my profession, I can work in conjunction with qualified professionals such as; Chiropractor, Physical Therapist, or Sports Medecine Professional to help strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight muscles to help regain a balanced muscle structure.