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The following is an explanation of the effect of poor posture on the

muscles attached to the spine:

It is well documented in physiology that a muscle stretched beyond the physiological resting position tends to
weaken. This is called “Stretch Weakness”. On the flip side, muscles kept in a shortened position tend to
lose elasticity. They may test strong in the shortened position, but become weak as they are lengthened. This is
called “Tight Weakness”.

These two effects are present in this patient who exhibits a postural dysfunction profile.

Some of the short-term effects of this profile are pain from stress to the shortened structures, and a predispo-
sition to injury or overuse syndromes, due to strength and flexibility imbalances.

These postural imbalances cause the forward head and round shoulder posture profile, which in
turn:

1. Decreases the load-bearing capabilities of the spine
2. Increases the loading on its supportive musculature
3. Decreases the flexibility and strength of the supporting musculature.

It is possible that this overall instability in the cervical spine can lead to subluxations or misalignments.

All three of these effects are important to the doctor of chiropractic when considering a treatment plan. It is
rare that an adjustment alone can correct this type of deficient posture profile. Direct intervention is needed to
correct the muscle imbalances first.

Even when a doctor understands the importance of posture, there may be a reluctance to use it as an indicator
because of a lack of knowledge of how to adequately treat the posture deficiency. While most adjustments
may mobilize the spine, they don’t address the deficiencies in the supporting musculature. Additional interven-
tion is needed.

This patient’s musculoskeletal examination and observation indicated that these muscles were involved. This
patient was then put on a treatment program of repatterning stretches and exercises that are effective in the
correction of this problem. An initial analysis is necessary to determine if the problem exists corresponding to
the nature of the presenting case history. Follow up postural analysis is necessary to determine effectiveness of
treatment and alteration based on percentage of correction. Subsequent analysis is scheduled on a 12 visit
frequency for maximum effectiveness and accurate measurement of improvement.

On the following pages is an overview of the major muscles involved in the Forward Head posture profile.