Posture is a highly individual and dynamic aspect of human physiology. It is more about how your body adapts and interacts with different situations than a fixed ‘correct’ or ‘incorrect’ state. Posture can be simply defined as the way in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down.

A growing body of research suggests that the concept of a ‘bad posture’ is subjective, and there is no definitive link between specific postural habits and pain. In fact, posture varies greatly among individuals, and what may be considered a ‘good posture’ for one person may not work or feel comfortable for another.

What is Posture?

Posture is the attitude assumed by the body either with support during muscular inactivity, or the coordinated action of many muscles working to maintain stability. It forms an essential basis that is being adapted constantly.

Our posture is an active process involving not only our muscles and joints but also our perception, emotions, and the environment we are in. Even seemingly static positions, like sitting or standing, are full of tiny adjustments and movements.

Understanding ‘Good’ and ‘Bad’ Posture

The traditional view of posture insists on a ‘correct’ or ‘incorrect’ way to hold one’s body, often associated with aesthetics, fitness, or health. However, current research indicates that this may be an oversimplified view.

Several studies have found no consistent link between posture and musculoskeletal pain, questioning the widely held belief that ‘bad posture’ leads to back or neck pain. Instead of striving for an arbitrarily ‘ideal’ posture, experts now emphasize postural variability—the ability to comfortably change and adapt one’s posture to different situations.

Optimizing Posture (The Importance of the Pelvic Girdle)

According to Vleeming et al., the sacral base is the geometric center of the postural system. Unlevelness of the sacrum contributes to postural imbalance and stress.

Posture and Health

Poor posture can negatively impact health, increasing stress on joints and causing pain. It can also contribute to breathing difficulties, digestive issues, and even affect heart function.

Age-Related Postural Changes

Aging affects posture through changes such as thoracic hyperkyphosis, lumbar lordosis loss, and decreased plantar arch.

The Importance of Posture in Different Populations

**Geriatric Patients:** Correcting muscle imbalances improves balance, reduces fall risk, and prevents osteoporosis.

**Pediatric Patients:** Proper posture during growth reduces dysfunction risk; affected by activity level, confidence, and seating equipment.

**Athletic Posture:** Athletes need agility and posture control for performance and injury prevention.

**Neurologic Patients:** Patients with spinal cord injuries require postural assessments to ensure mobility safety.

Physiotherapy and Posture

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in postural awareness, promoting movement adaptability rather than ‘correcting’ posture.

Examples of Abnormal Posture

• Lordotic Posture – Excessive inward spinal curve leading to hyperextension.
• Sway Back Posture – Forward head, excessive thoracic flexion, and lumbar extension.
• Flat-Back Posture – Straight lumbar spine, forward head, and posterior pelvic tilt.
• Forward Head Posture – Head shifts forward due to increased cervical flexion.
• Scoliosis – Lateral spinal curvature causing postural imbalance.
• Kyphosis – Excessive thoracic spine curvature, leading to a hunchback posture.

Summary

In conclusion, posture is not about adhering to an ideal standard but about how our bodies adapt and interact with different situations. The focus should be on postural awareness, variability, and fostering overall health.