Non-structural misalignments of body posture in the sagittal plane

Abstract

BackgroundThe physiological sagittal spinal curvature represents a typical feature of good body posture in the sagittal plane. The cervical and the lumbar spine are curved anteriorly (lordosis), while the thoracic segment is curved posteriorly (kyphosis). The pelvis is inclined anteriorly, and the lower limbs’ joints remain in a neutral position. However, there are many deviations from the optimal body alignment.The aim of this paper is to present the most common types of non-structural misalignments of the body posture in the sagittal plane.Main body of the abstractThe most common types of non-structural misalignments of body posture in the sagittal plane are as follows: (1) lordotic, (2) kyphotic, (3) flat-back, and (4) sway-back postures. Each one may influence both the skeletal and the muscular system leading to the functional disturbance and an increased strain of the supporting structures. Usually, the disturbances localized within the muscles are analyzed in respect to their shortening or lengthening. However, according to suggestions presented in the literature, when the muscles responsible for maintaining good body posture (the so-called stabilizers) are not being stimulated to resist against gravity for an extended period of time, e.g., during prolonged sitting, their stabilizing function is disturbed by the hypoactivity reaction resulting in muscular weakness. The deficit of the locomotor system stability triggers a compensatory mechanism—the stabilizing function is overtaken by the so-called mobilizing muscles. However, as a side effect, such compensation leads to the increased activity of mobilizers (hyperactivity) and decreased flexibility, which may finally lead to the pathological chain of reaction within the musculoskeletal system.ConclusionsThere exist four principal types of non-structural body posture misalignments in the sagittal plane: lordotic posture, kyphotic posture, flat-back posture, and sway-back posture. Each of them can disturb the physiological loading of the musculoskeletal system in a specific way, which may lead to a functional disorder.When planning postural corrective exercises, not only the analysis of muscles in respect to their shortening and lengthening but also their hypoactivity and hyperactivity should be considered.

The Rolf Method of Structural Integration and Pelvic Floor Muscle Facilitation: Preliminary Results of a Randomized, Interventional Study

“…Abnormal body posture is a term commonly used in clinical practice to describe the relationships between different parts of the body in the sagittal, frontal, and horizontal planes that may be considered defective, non-ergonomic, and likely to affect the functioning of internal organs. It is believed that incorrect posture may place an increased strain on the soft tissues and skeletal system, and interfere with the body's balance [53]. The work of Manshadi et al [54], studying 160 women with urinary incontinence, showed a statistically significant difference in the asymmetry of the pelvis in a standing position, compared to healthy women.…”

The prevalence of postural disorders among eighth grade elementary school students

“…Viewed on the sagittal plane, the most prevalent functional postural disorders of the spinal column include: kyphosis, lordosis, kypho-lordosis, and flat back (Кosinac, 2008;Stoliński, Tyrakowski, Kozinoga, & Kotwicki, 2018). Less prevalent postural disorders which also occur in the sagittal plane are the concave and rounded back (Živković, 2009).…”

A Short Overview of the Effects of Kinesio Taping for Postural Spine Curvature Disorders

“…The curve is often S-shaped or C-shaped. Structural alterations to the spine may lead to functional disturbances that, in turn, cause pain, inflammation, muscle weakness, nervous system stimuli disorders, and injuries [ 4 ]. Spine deviations are classified as “paramorphisms” and “dysmorphisms”.…”

“…The onset could be determined by several factors including muscle weakness due to low physical activity, inappropriate posture as well as improper transportation of school equipment [ 8 ]. Broadly, it consists of a combination of incorrect postural habits and muscle hypo/hyper-activity [ 4 ]. Posture is a widely studied matter, as is its interaction with Kinesio Taping (KT) methods.…”