What is postural syndrome?
Postural Syndrome refers to a condition whereby prolonged or repetitive poor positioning of one’s body can lead to pain and dysfunction.
The pain arises during static positioning of the spine: for example sustained slouched sitting.
The pain disappears when the patient is moved out of the static position.
What causes injuries to this tissue?
The most common causes of postural syndrome relate to prolonged periods of desk and computer work. Often our workstation set up leads to a forward head, rounded upper back and slumped lower back. Extended periods of time in this position can lead to stress on the body that can cause pain and decreased ability to do life’s activities. Neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, mid back and low back pain can all occur with this poor posture.
What is the best treatment approach?
Physical therapy is usually the primary treatment for postural syndrome. Massage and chiropractic work can also be helpful.
What will the role of physical therapy be in this process?
Physical therapy can be enormously helpful in dealing with postural syndrome. An evaluation of the workstation with suggestions for modifications are common. Stretching and strengthening of specific muscles are a large part of the treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the condition, other manual techniques including soft tissue massage, joint mobilizations and pain relieving modalities may be used to help alleviate symptoms.
Will other services be helpful in taking care of this?
Underlying muscle tightness and soft tissue restrictions that are found to be related to postural syndrome may be helped by massage therapy work. Acupuncture can also be of assistance with the pain associated with these conditions. Training to return to specific life tasks or sports can be initiated by physical therapists and progressed by personal trainers. After your initial physical therapy evaluation, your physical therapist will help to determine if these services may be helpful.
Need More?
If you have more clinical questions about this condition, please click here to email us at Health Plus Physiotherapist Dr. Nirali Patel (RPT) or you can get more information by searching our blog.
If you’d like a injury screen with one of our licensed physical therapists to discuss your condition, please contact us.
If you’re ready to make an appointment for any of our services, please contact us.
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