INTRODUCTION:The activities of external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO) muscles during forced expiration in a trunk-neutral posture are insufficient for muscle strengthening. Furthermore, these activities during forced expiration may be affected by trunk postures, which can change respiratory muscle activity. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of trunk posture on the EO and IO muscles' activities during forced expiration. METHODS:Thirty healthy males participated in this study. The participants were placed in the supine position with their trunks in the neutral, right rotation, or right lateral trunk flexion position, and their bilateral EO and IO muscles' activities during forced expiration were measured using surface electromyography. RESULTS:The right EO muscle's activity during forced expiration was significantly higher in the right trunk flexion position than in the neutral trunk and right trunk rotation positions (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively) but was significantly lower in the right trunk rotation than in the neutral trunk (p < 0.01). In contrast, the left EO muscle's activity was significantly higher in the right trunk rotation position than in the neutral trunk and right lateral trunk flexion positions (p < 0.001 for both) but was significantly lower in the right lateral trunk flexion position than in the neutral trunk position (p < 0.01). The bilateral IO muscles' activity during forced expiration did not significantly differ among the three postures. CONCLUSION:The findings indicated that the bilateral EO muscles' activity during forced expiration was affected by trunk posture.

: Upright open magnetic resonance imaging allows the impact of posture and gravity to be evaluated. Randomized controlled trials of yoga for treating urinary incontinence (UI) in women show significant clinical benefit, yet the anatomic impact of this therapy on the lower urinary tract remains unelucidated. This study tested the hypothesis that open MRI scans can be obtained with sufficient detail to visualize the bladder neck and urethra. : We scanned a volunteer subject using a 0.5 Tesla MRO Open Evo scanner to obtain axial and sagittal T2-weighted pelvic scans during poses used in yoga therapy. To obtain images with the necessary detail, we employed variations in sequencing during scanning of each individual pose. The changes observed in the bladder neck and urethral outline in each pose were then compared to baseline supine images. : Images with sufficient anatomic detail were obtained in each of the four poses studied. These scans identified that the urethral outline changes anatomically based on the posture adopted and is dynamic with regional alternations evident in caliber during specific yoga poses. : Open MRI can identify anatomical changes involving the bladder neck and urethra that occur during yoga poses used in the treatment of UI in women; these likely relate to effects of posture and gravity. Open MRI offers a way to elucidate the anatomic effects that specific yoga poses generate and to identify those with the potential to be most beneficial clinically to women as a form of therapy.

BACKGROUND:It is well-recognized that maintaining a regular yogic practice is associated with numerous physical and psychological health benefits. However, few studies have explored the possible psychological and neurophysiological mediators through which the component parts of yoga-ethics, breath regulation, postures, and meditation-work to produce salutary effects. PURPOSE:To address this gap, we conducted a cluster randomized trial to test the following set of theory-based mechanisms: emotion regulation for ethics, self-control for breath regulation, discomfort and distress tolerance for postures, and mindfulness for meditation. We also explored yoga's effects on the autonomic nervous system by examining salivary acetylcholinesterase levels. METHODS:Participants (N = 260) were randomly assigned in clusters (n = 37) to a single, hour-long standard or postures-only yoga class. RESULTS:Findings suggest that a single yoga class may confer both psychological and neurophysiological benefits, yet there were few differences between the two types of yoga classes. Pre- to post-session main effects of time, all in the expected direction, emerged for five of eight theoretical mediators, as well as for salivary acetylcholinesterase levels. Time X condition interactions observed for three of the mediators-cognitive reappraisal, discomfort tolerance, and expressive suppression-along with findings from the exploratory mediation analysis suggest potential unique benefits of the two yoga sessions for certain outcomes. CONCLUSIONS:Additional studies are needed to replicate these results and to test other potential mediators and/or primary outcomes through which yoga might work to promote health.

The spine is a key component of the skeletal system, with a complex anatomical structure that varies along its length. Its specific structure allows it to fulfill multiple functions, including maintaining proper upright posture. Human posture reflects the coordinated interaction between the kinesthetic sense, muscular system, and nervous system. Various factors influence posture formation, including environmental conditions, lifestyle, physical activity, nutrition, and genetics. Data from Poland indicate that postural defects affect 30% to 60% of children and adolescents, with variations due to assessment methods. According to the Center for Health Information Systems, incorrect posture was diagnosed in 17.14% of children and adolescents aged 0-18 years, with 9.7% of spinal deformities identified in children aged 2-9 years. This study explores the etiological factors of spinal deformities, particularly scoliosis, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and hormonal factors such as vitamin D. This study is based on a literature review and analysis of research on postural defects, particularly scoliosis, focusing on prevalence, etiology, and risk factors. The methodology involves a systematic search of peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and epidemiological reports from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. Research suggests a possible correlation between scoliosis severity and vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is essential for bone mineralization and neuromuscular function, and deficiencies may contribute to reduced postural stability and increased spinal curvature. Some studies indicate a negative correlation between vitamin D levels and Cobb angle severity, though further research is needed.

Awkward postures are a significant contributor to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), which represent great social and economic burdens. Various posture assessment tools assess WRMSD risk but fall short in providing an elucidating risk breakdown to expedite the typical time-consuming ergonomic assessments. Quantifying, automating, but also complementing posture risk assessment become crucial. Thus, we developed a framework for a holistic posture assessment, able to, through inertial data, quantify the ergonomic risk and also qualitatively identify the posture leading to it, using Deep Learning. This innovatively enabled the generation of a report in a graphical user interface (GUI), where the ergonomic score is intuitively associated with the postures adopted, empowering workers to learn which are the riskiest postures, and helping ergonomists and managers to redesign critical work tasks. The continuous posture assessment also considered the previous postures' impact on joint stress through a kinematic wear model. As use case, thirteen subjects replicated harvesting and bricklaying, work tasks of the two activity sectors most affected by WRMSDs, agriculture and construction, and a posture assessment was conducted. Three ergonomists evaluated this report, considering it very useful in improving ergonomic assessments' effectiveness, expeditiousness, and ease of use, with the information easily understandable and reachable.

INTRODUCTION:Low back pain (LBP) is considered to alter postural control, yet postural control results remain heterogenous in the LBP population. A potential explanation is that postural control has been predominantly characterised by the 'center of pressure' (CoP) mechanism in non-challenging anatomical conditions, omitting the contribution of the 'segment rotation' mechanism (i.e. modification of whole-body angular momentum). The objective of this study was to characterise the impact of LBP on postural control in non-challenging and challenging bipedal upright postures, using indicators illustrating the contribution of both the CoP and segment rotation mechanisms to postural control. METHODS:Twenty adults with chronic LBP and twenty age-matched adults without LBP stood quietly on a forceplate in four postural conditions: anatomical with eyes open, anatomical with eyes closed, tandem with eyes open and tandem with eyes closed. ANOVAs were used to compare indicators illustrating the contribution of the CoP and segment rotation mechanisms between groups and conditions. RESULTS:No difference in indicators of the CoP mechanism were observed between the two groups. Smaller results in mediolateral indicators accounting for the segment rotation mechanism were observed for the LBP group in the tandem with eyes closed condition, compared to the control group. DISCUSSION:These findings suggest that LBP impairs reliance on the segment rotation mechanism (i.e. modification of whole-body angular momentum) for postural control, when its contribution is substantial and cannot be compensated by visual feedbacks. Consequently, the segment rotation mechanism should be quantified complementarily to the CoP mechanism in the LBP population.

INTRODUCTION:Pilates is commonly used to treat postural misalignments; however, there is a lack of systematic reviews on this topic. OBJECTIVE:To verify the effects of Pilates on postural misalignment. METHODS:A search (25 February 2024) was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Web of Science, LILACS, SportDiscus, and PEDro. The methodological quality was assessed via the PEDro scale, and the certainty of evidence via the GRADE system. The meta-analysis was conducted using the standardised mean difference (SMD). RESULTS:Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review. Eight studies had a low risk of bias. In children and adolescents, there was moderate certainty of evidence that Pilates improves postural alignment of the thoracic angle (SMD = -0.45 [0.67, -0.23]) and lumbar angle (SMD = -0.29 [-0.50, -0.07]) compared with inactive controls, whereas there was very low certainty of evidence that the Schroth technique is superior to Pilates for scoliosis (SMD = 0.98 [0.32, 1.65]). In adults, very low- to low-certainty evidence has indicated that Pilates improves postural alignment of the shoulder angle (SMD = -0.78 [-1.23, -0.33]), scoliosis (SMD = -0.52 [-1.01, -0.04]) and lumbar lordosis (SMD = -0.40 [0.72, -0.08]) compared with inactive controls and improve the craniovertebral angle (SMD = -1.24 [-2.85, -0.38]) compared with stretching and strengthening exercises. CONCLUSION:Pilates has some potential for improving postural misalignment of the thoracic and lumbar angles in children and adolescents. However, for other body segments, due to the low certainty of the evidence, further studies are needed.

STUDY DESIGN:A randomized controlled trial using a pretest-posttest control group design. PURPOSE:This study investigated the effects of core stabilization exercises (CSEs) on cervical sagittal vertical alignment (cSVA), Cobb's angle, and Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores in patients with forward head posture (FHP). OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE:FHP is a local poor neck posture. However, it is frequently caused by sagittal lumbopelvic malalignment. Therefore, an alternative view by which we can begin proximal neuromuscular control is necessary. METHODS:This study included 36 patients with FHP with a mean age of 27±2.63 years. These patients were randomly assigned to the two following groups: experimental group A (n=19), which received CSEs and postural correctional exercises (PCEs), , and control group B (n=17), which received only the PCE program. Randomization was performed using the computer-generated block randomization method. Training was applied 3 times per week and lasted for 6 weeks. Data were collected before and after training using lateral view cervical X-ray and NDI. RESULTS:Two-way mixed-design multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant improvements in mean cSVA and NDI values after training (p <0.05) in experimental group (A) compared with pre-training values, whereas no significant differences in these values were observed after training in the control group. In contrast, no significant difference in the mean Cobb angle values after training was observed between the groups. CONCLUSIONS:Adding CSEs to PCEs is more effective than performing PCEs alone for managing FHP. The trial was registered in the ClinicalTrials. gov registry under the registration number NCT06160245.

This study analyzed the effects of an 8-week diaphragmatic core training program on postural stability during high-intensity squats and examined its efficacy in injury prevention and performance enhancement. Thirty-seven male participants were randomly assigned to three groups: diaphragmatic core training group (DCTG, n = 12), core training group (CTG, n = 13), and control group (CG, n = 12). Outcome measurements included diaphragm thickness, respiratory function (mean and maximal respiratory pressures), and squat postural stability (distance between the sacral and upper body center points, peak trunk extension moment, peak knee flexion moment, and dynamic postural stability index). Compared to both CTG and CG, DCTG demonstrated significantly greater improvements in diaphragm thickness (DCTG: 34.62% increase vs. CTG: 1.36% and CG: 3.62%, < 0.001), mean respiratory pressure (DCTG: 18.88% vs. CTG: 1.31% and CG: 0.02%, < 0.001), and maximal respiratory pressure (DCTG: 18.62% vs. CTG: 0.72% and CG: 1.90%, < 0.001). DCTG also showed superior improvements in postural stability measures, including reductions in the distance between sacral and upper body center points (DCTG: -6.19% vs. CTG: -3.26% and CG: +4.55%, < 0.05), peak trunk extension moment (DCTG: -15.22% vs. CTG: -5.29% and CG: +19.31%, < 0.001), and dynamic postural stability index (DCTG: -28.13% vs. CTG: -21.43% and CG: no change, < 0.001). No significant between-group differences were observed in peak knee flexion moment. Core training incorporating diaphragmatic strengthening was more effective than conventional training in improving postural stability during high-intensity squats. Core training programs, including diaphragmatic strengthening exercises, may contribute to injury prevention and performance enhancement in exercises requiring lumbar stability, such as squats.

OBJECTIVE:An optimal proprioceptive reweighting strategy is necessary to maintain posture. A suboptimal strategy was associated with injury determinants and whether the strategy can be modified is unknown. Muscle fatigue can be used to investigate proprioceptive reweighting. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of local fatigue on proprioceptive reweighting strategies and postural stability as well as relationships between fatigue and these postural parameters. DESIGN:Fourteen recreational athletes were included. Relative proprioceptive weighting (RPW) was characterized according to the perturbation of the center of pressure (CoP) displacement generated by muscle vibration on a firm and foam surface. RPW evolution <95 % indicated that individuals were able to reweight proprioception from the ankle to lumbar signals according to the surface while evolution >105 % indicated that athletes maintained an ankle-steered strategy. Student's t-tests were used to compare RPW evolution, CoP velocity, and root mean square (RMS) before and after exercise-induced hamstring fatigue. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to test the relationship between fatigue variables, RPW evolution, and stability variables. RESULTS:Hamstring fatigue induced an ankle-steered strategy characterized by an increase in RPW evolution when the surface was changed (P = 0.002) and an increase in CoP velocity (P = 0.045) and CoP RMS (P = 0.005) on firm surface. None of the correlation coefficients testing the relationship between the parameters proved to be significant. CONCLUSION:Local fatigue leads to suboptimal proprioceptive reweighting strategies and impaired stability on firm surface. Results suggests that proprioceptive reweighting strategies are modifiable. Whether this predisposes participants to injury remains to be defined.

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have the potential to restore hand movement for people with paralysis, but current devices still lack the fine control required to interact with objects of daily living. Following our understanding of cortical activity during arm reaches, hand BCI studies have focused primarily on velocity control. However, mounting evidence suggests that posture, and not velocity, dominates in hand-related areas. To explore whether this signal can causally control a prosthesis, we developed a BCI training paradigm centered on the reproduction of posture transitions. Monkeys trained with this protocol were able to control a multidimensional hand prosthesis with high accuracy, including execution of the very intricate precision grip. Analysis revealed that the posture signal in the target grasping areas was the main contributor to control. We present, for the first time, neural posture control of a multidimensional hand prosthesis, opening the door for future interfaces to leverage this additional information channel.

BACKGROUND:Scoliosis considerably affects adolescents' physical well-being and quality of life. Current research offers scant data concerning the correlation between abnormal posture, screen time, physical activity, and adolescent scoliosis. This study aimed to investigate their potential correlations with suspected scoliosis in teenagers aged 10-13 years. METHODS:This is a cross-sectional study. School scoliosis screening was conducted on adolescents aged 10-13 years from nine schools in Guangzhou, China. The survey encompassed demographic attributes, postural traits, and daily lifestyles. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the correlations between various variables and the occurrence of suspected scoliosis. RESULTS:A total of 1297 questionnaires were distributed, and 1231 (94.9%) valid responses were received. All participants with valid responses underwent scoliosis screening. The overall prevalence of suspected scoliosis was 5.1%, with the highest prevalence observed in 11-year-old students, primarily affecting the thoracic spine. Significant correlations were found between suspected scoliosis and right-sided flatfoot, flat upper back, positive forward bend test (FBT), After-school screen time, weekend outdoor time, and weekend TV time. CONCLUSIONS:The results show a substantial correlation between the incidence of suspected scoliosis and abnormal posture. Moreover, a marked correlation exists between distinct activity patterns, particularly extended usage of electronic devices and television, and the incidence of suspected scoliosis. Screening for abnormal posture and performing the FBT can help detect suspected scoliosis, which requires further clinical assessment to differentiate between postural deviations and scoliosis. We advise middle and primary school kids to modify their daily routines by decreasing sedentary behavior and enhancing physical activity to mitigate the potential occurrence of trunk asymmetries.

The correct working posture of dentists is not only the premise of clinical diagnosis, treatment quality and safety but also an important guarantee for the occupational health of dentists. Presently, research on the working posture of dental professionals and related influencing factors is relatively mature internationally. Still, the dental curriculums in our country have not systematically introduced theoretical knowledge and standards related to working posture. This review analyzes and summarizes previous literature on the importance of dental working posture, criteria, assessment methods, and influencing factors, in hopes of providing references and theoretical supports for future guidelines and standards.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for measuring muscle size. However, postural conditions for thigh musculature have not been standardized across studies, with some employing supine or prone positions and the thigh either placed on the examination table or suspended to avoid contact. In either case, the thigh is compressed or sagged by gravity, potentially affecting muscle size. This study aimed to examine the effects of postural conditions on thigh muscle size. Twenty Olympic-style weightlifters and 20 untrained controls (10 men and 10 women in each group) underwent 3-Tesla MRI in the supine and prone positions, with the thigh in compressed and suspended conditions to determine the maximal anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSAmax) and muscle volume of 15 thigh muscle groups/individual muscles. Postural conditions changed the ACSAmax of the quadriceps (range of postural-related changes: 1.0%-7.9%), hamstrings (0.8%-19.1%), and adductors (2.4%-19.2%). Regardless of measurement position, the total volume of thigh muscles decreased under compressed conditions (0.6%-3.8%). Quadriceps and adductors decreased in muscle volume under compressed conditions (0.9%-4.0% and 0.8%-6.6%), while hamstrings increased (1.4%-9.3%). Male weightlifters, who possessed the largest thigh muscle volume, showed greater postural-related changes in the muscle volume of quadriceps, hamstrings, and adductors than the other subgroups. Therefore, postural conditions during MRI substantially change thigh muscle size, and the magnitude of the change depends on muscle size. Our results provide in vivo evidence of the compressive behavior of thigh muscles and a new technical perspective for assessing thigh muscle size.

Parkinson's disease (PD) can cause postural instability, which may result in falls. These issues have been associated with motor and non-motor symptoms (NMS), including cognitive dysfunction. Several techniques have been employed to investigate the underlying neural mechanisms involved in postural control in PD. These include behavioural studies assessing associations between cognition and postural control, functional neuroimaging studies, and resting-state neural correlates. This review provides an overview of these emerging bodies of research. Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest were searched and detailed the brain-imaging technique, cohort, and postural control measures. A total of 79 studies were identified. Findings supported the notion of cortical involvement in postural control function to compensate for subcortical damage resulting from PD. Future studies should standardise their outcome measures and data analysis to allow comparisons of results across studies and ensure more comprehensive and robust data collection to enhance the reliability and validity of these findings.

PURPOSE:Systematic review and meta-analysis to examine common static postural parameters between participants with and without low back pain (LBP). METHODS:Systematic search on the PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and SCOPUS databases using keywords 'posture' and 'low back pain'. Observational studies comparing static postural outcomes (e.g. lumbar lordosis) between participants with and without LBP were included. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, data extraction and quality assessment. Methodological quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tools. RESULTS:Studies included in review = 46 (5,097 LBP; 6,974 controls); meta-analysis = 36 (3,617 LBP; 4,323 controls). Quality of included studies was mixed. Pelvic tilt was statistically significantly higher in participants with LBP compared to controls ( = 23; 2,540 LBP; 3,090 controls; SMD:0.23, 95%CI:0.10,0.35,  < 0.01, I=72%). Lumbar lordosis and sacral slope may be lower in participants with LBP; pelvic incidence may be higher in this group; both were not statistically significant and the between study heterogeneity was high. Thoracic kyphosis and leg length discrepancy showed no difference between groups. CONCLUSIONS:Lumbopelvic mechanisms may be altered in people with LBP, but no firm conclusions could be made. Pelvic tilt appeared to be increased in participants with LBP. Postural variable measurement needs standardisation. Better reporting of study characteristics is warranted.

Objective:To evaluate the effectiveness of a squatting posture grading system established to screen for limited ankle dorsiflexion. METHODS:The squat posture grading system categorizes subjects' squat posture into three grades. Grade 1 is defined as being able to maintain a squatting posture with heels on the ground in full ankle dorsiflexion without effort. Grade 2 is defined as being able to perform the same position, but unable to maintain the position for more than 5 seconds or requiring trunk and leg muscle efforts to maintain the position. Grade 3 is defined as being unable to maintain the same position and falling backwards immediately if attempted to touch the ground with heels. Next, subjects' ankle dorsiflexion angles were directly measured in knee flexed and extended position by goniometer. RESULTS:Out of the 92 total subjects, 35 were in grade 1, 18 were in grade 2, and 39 were in grade 3. The average ankle dorsiflexion angle with knee flexed position were 23.13° for grade 1, 16.03° for grade 2, and 9.31° for grade 3. The average ankle dorsiflexion angle with knee extended position were 15.16° for grade 1, 7.92° for grade 2, and 3.40° for grade 3. Ankle dorsiflexion angles showed a significant decrease from grade 1 to 3 (p<0.05). Conclusion:The squatting posture grading system defined in this study effectively graded the subjects based on the difference in their average ankle dorsiflexion angle. This system could be used as a quick screening method for limited ankle dorsiflexion.

: Oral breathing is a common condition, particularly in children, and it is associated with significant changes in craniofacial development, dentomaxillary anomalies, and overall health. Despite extensive research, the role of oral breathing in the development of malocclusion remains controversial, with debates on whether it is a causative factor or a secondary adaptation to existing craniofacial issues. : This narrative review synthesizes studies published in the last 15 years, focusing on the impact of oral breathing on dentofacial development and mandibular posture. A comprehensive search was conducted on four electronic databases (Embase, Medline, ProQUEST, Scopus) using keywords related to oral breathing, malocclusion, mandibular posture, and craniofacial development. Studies were included if they focused on the effects of oral breathing on craniofacial morphology, malocclusion, and postural changes in children and adolescents aged 6-18 years. : Results indicate a strong link between oral breathing and dentofacial changes such as adenoid facies, Class II malocclusion, posterior crossbite, and anterior open bite. It causes cranial posture changes, particularly increased craniocervical extension, as a compensatory mechanism to maintain airway patency. : Oral breathing is a risk factor for malocclusion prognosis, especially in growing children. Dentofacial changes in oral breathers include adenoid facies, convex facial profile, and increased lower facial height. Oral breathing also leads to significant changes in cranial posture, often accompanied by mandibular, lingual, and palatal alterations.

INTRODUCTION:Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a highly effective surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain and restoring function in patients with severe hip joint disorders, such as osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The primary goals of THA are to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance the quality of life by providing a stable and well-functioning hip joint. Accurate orientation of the acetabular component is critical for the success of THA, ensuring optimal joint mechanics, reducing the risk of complications such as dislocation and wear, and enhancing implant longevity. Postural changes significantly influence the orientation and stability of the acetabular component. Traditional supine evaluations may not accurately reflect the functional alignment during daily activities, necessitating more dynamic assessment methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS:The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from March 2018 to October 2019. It was a prospective study involving 27 patients who underwent primary THA. Exclusion criteria included bilateral or revision THA, a history of spine or hip surgery, neurological or musculoskeletal disorders, or lower limb deformities. Computed tomography scans were performed in supine, simulated standing, and sitting postures. Pre-operative and post-operative evaluations included standing and sitting lateral lumbosacral spine radiographs. Measurements at the spinopelvic junction evaluated spinal balance and pelvic compensation. The anatomical acetabular anteversion (AAA) was determined in supine, standing, and sitting positions using CT scans. RESULTS:The study included 27 patients aged 19 to 66 (mean age 37). Most patients (17, 63%) were between 21-40 years old. Osteoarthritis was the most common indication for THA (15, 55.6%), followed by osteonecrosis (six, 22.2%), DDH (four, 14.8%), and post-traumatic arthritis (two, 7.4%). Spinopelvic mobility assessment showed 15 (55.6%) participants with normal mobility, eight (29.6%) who were hypermobile, three (11.1%) stiff, and one (3.7%) who were severely stiff. Significant variability in acetabular component orientation was observed across postures: mean supine AAA was 11.04° (SD 14.44°), standing AAA was 13.07° (SD 14.38°), and sitting AAA was 30.93° (SD 14.28°). The mean difference between sitting and standing AAA was 17.85° (SD 11.83°). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in acetabular component orientation across different postures (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION:This study highlights the critical need for dynamic and individualised approaches in THA. The findings underscore the importance of dynamic pre-operative assessments, including standing and sitting radiographs, to optimise component placement. Clinical recommendations include tailoring surgical techniques based on individual spinopelvic mobility, utilising advanced intraoperative tools for precise placement, and developing customised post-operative rehabilitation programs.

The purpose of this study was to determine how wrist exertion direction and forearm posture independently influence upper arm muscle activity during isometric wrist contractions. Surface electromyography was recorded from three muscles of the upper-limb: biceps brachii, triceps brachii, and brachioradialis. Participants were seated with their forearm supported in one of three postures (supinated/neutral/pronated) with an adjustable force transducer that could be placed either above, below, or to the right/left of the participant's hand. Participants performed randomized trials of isometric wrist flexion or extension at five relative intensities: 20, 40, 60, 80, or 100% of maximal force. Trials lasted 4.5 s and both wrist force and electromyography data were assessed. In general, the elbow flexors were more active during wrist flexion, while the triceps were more active in wrist extension, but this pattern reversed in certain forearm postures and wrist exertion directions. Both forearm posture and wrist exertion direction resulted in unique effects on upper arm muscle activity. These findings suggest that muscle activity of the upper arm muscles is influenced independently by both posture and force direction, which should be carefully considered by both motor control specialists and ergonomists.

BACKGROUND:The efficacy of subthalamic stimulation on axial signs of Parkinson's disease (PD) is debated in the literature. This study delves into the dynamic interplay of gait and posture, specifically probing their nuanced response to subthalamic stimulation and levodopa. METHODS:We used wearable sensor technology to examine alterations in the spatiotemporal parameters of gait and posture in individuals with PD before and 6 months after subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) surgery. Thirty-three subjects with PD were evaluated in two pre-operative and four post-operative conditions comprising OFF/ON medication and stimulation states. Standardized response mean (SRM) values were calculated to assess treatment responsiveness. RESULTS:Significant improvements in spatiotemporal gait parameters, including speed, stride length, cadence, and turning, were observed following STN-DBS surgery. Quantitatively, stimulation outperformed levodopa in enhancing gait speed, stride length, and turning, as indicated by SRM. Levodopa moderately improved stride time variability and asymmetry, while stimulation alone demonstrated limited efficacy. Postural parameters exhibited minimal change following STN-DBS, although stimulation showed a slight benefit in certain postural aspects. CONCLUSION:Our findings suggest positive effects of stimulation and levodopa on gait and postural parameters, with STN-DBS demonstrating superior efficacy in enhancing gait speed, stride length, and turning. However, gait variability remains unaddressed by current therapies, highlighting the need for novel treatments targeting regions beyond the basal ganglia.

Background:Regular training is associated with better postural alignment, decreased risk of musculoskeletal problems, and improved overall physical function. The aim of this study was to examine the changes in the spinal postures of individuals who regularly engage in fitness and bodybuilding training. Methods:A total of 252 male individuals between the ages of 20-28 (mean age: 23.71 ± 1.81 years), who either engage in fitness and bodybuilding training (athletes) (n = 125; age 23.61 ± 1.78 years; sports age 5 ± 0.89 years) and those who do not engage in sports (sedentary) (n = 127; age 23.82 ± 1.83 years) participated in the study. A spinal Mouse device was used in the measurements. In spine measurement, all spinal protrusions from C7 to S1 were evaluated. T-test and correlation tests were used to analyze the data. Results:A statistically significant difference was detected between the athlete and sedentary groups regarding the degrees of thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and sacral kyphosis (p < 0.05). However, no difference was observed in the upright posture (p > 0.05). Conclusion:It was found that there were significant differences in some spinal curves of fitness and bodybuilding trainees compared to sedentary, but the values were within physiological limits and did not indicate negative effects. The study may provide new insights into the effects of fitness and bodybuilding training on spine health, and individuals can incorporate training with proper form and technique into their lifestyle for spinal health.

Occupational low back pain (LBP) is a pervasive health issue that significantly impacts productivity and contributes to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Inadequate lifting postures are a primary, modifiable risk factor associated with LBP, making early detection of unsafe practices crucial to mitigating occupational injuries. Our study aims to address these limitations by developing a markerless, smartphone-based camera system integrated with a deep learning model capable of accurately classifying lifting postures. We recruited 50 healthy adults who participated in lifting tasks using correct and incorrect postures to build a robust dataset. Participants lifted boxes of varying sizes and weights while their movements were recorded from multiple angles and heights to ensure comprehensive data capture. We used the OpenPose algorithm to detect and extract key body points to calculate relevant biomechanical features. These extracted features served as inputs to a bidirectional long short-term memory (LSTM) model, which classified lifting postures into correct and incorrect categories. : Our model demonstrated high classification accuracy across all datasets, with accuracy rates of 96.9% for Tr, 95.6% for the testing set, and 94.4% for training. We observed that environmental factors, such as camera angle and height, slightly influenced the model's accuracy, particularly in scenarios where the subject's posture partially occluded key body points. Nonetheless, these variations were minor, confirming the robustness of our system across different conditions. This study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of a smartphone camera and AI-based system for lifting posture classification. The system's high accuracy, low setup cost, and ease of deployment make it a promising tool for enhancing workplace ergonomics. This approach highlights the potential of artificial intelligence to improve occupational safety and underscores the relevance of affordable, scalable solutions in the pursuit of healthier workplaces.

This study used the Anybody musculoskeletal model to investigate the effects of different neutral postures on the cervical spine and its associated muscle mechanical properties in various gravitational environments. A full-body musculoskeletal model (male, height: 1.74 m, mass: 74 kg) from the AMMR database, developed using the Anybody Modeling System, was employed to perform a quantitative analysis of three postures, including the neutral body posture in microgravity (NBP 0G), the neutral body posture in normal gravity (NBP 1G), and the relaxed standing posture in microgravity (SM 0G). The results showed that, compared to the NBP 1G posture in a gravitational environment, adopting the NBP 0G posture in microgravity resulted in an average reduction of 76.6% in the compressive force of the intervertebral discs, with shear forces in the same direction decreasing by 7.97 to 12.57 N. The shear force direction at the C6-C7 and C7-T1 segments changed, the intervertebral disc height increased by 1.6-4.8%, the disc cross-sectional area expanded by 3.2-6.9%, and the disc volume expanded by 4.8-9.4%. In addition, the total muscle force at the cervical region decreased while the ligament force increased. These changes in mechanical properties may significantly increase the risk of cervical disc herniation and degenerative disc diseases, as well as the risk of muscle atrophy in the neck.

People lead increasingly sedentary lifestyles and spend extended periods sitting in slouched and head-forward positions, which can lead to health issues. People are so accustomed to seeing slouched posture that they may perceive it as normal and fail to notice their own slouched posture. We aim to investigate this possibility using the visual adaptation paradigm, which has provided insights into the perception of body size and shape in the context of exposure to thin bodies in the media. The experiment was conducted in three phases. First, participants established the posture they perceived as normal by manipulating body stimuli shown in profile view. In the second phase, the adaptation phase, participants viewed bodies with extremely upright or slouched postures before establishing their perceived normal posture again in the third phase. Perceived normal posture differed significantly before versus after adaptation, demonstrating a visual aftereffect. However, this only applied if test and adaptation bodies were presented in the same orientation, suggesting that our representation of posture is retina-centred rather than object-centred. This result reduces the likelihood that visual adaptation influences the increase in slouched posture in the population. These results contribute to understanding visual influences on people's perception of body posture.

BACKGROUND:Sarcopenia usually manifests as a decrease in muscle mass and strength, seriously affecting the quality of life and independent living ability of elderly people. Moreover, sarcopenia is associated with various adverse outcomes such as mortality, postoperative infections, and severe complications, as well as affecting the balance and plantar pressure of the elderly. RESEARCH QUESTION:What are the characteristics of balance ability and plantar pressure in sarcopenia population across different standing postures? METHODS:A plantar pressure measurement system was used to measure the COP parameters and plantar pressure of 70 individuals in four standing postures: Feet 10 cm apart (FA), Feet together (FT), Feet Semi Tandem (FST), and Feet Full Tandem (FFT). The plantar area was divided into ten regions based on the anatomical structure of the foot. An independent samples t-test was conducted for significance testing, and developed sarcopenia screening models based on binary logistic regression. RESULTS:Research has found that there are significant differences in the center of plantar pressure (COP) speed, 95 % elliptical region, COP length, and short axis length between populations with and without sarcopenia in the FST stance. The analysis of plantar pressure showed that the main differences between the two groups were located in the metatarsal and heel regions, and the accuracy of the binary logistic regression model constructed based on the FFT stance plantar pressure data without weight-adjusted for screening sarcopenia was as high as 94.3 %, which was superior to other standing postures. SIGNIFICANCE:The difference in balance ability between sarcopenia population and non-sarcopenia population is reflected in standing posture with a relatively narrower base of support on the plantar surface (FST), and FFT stance plantar pressure can be used as a new method for screening sarcopenia.

BACKGROUND:The spinal health of teenagers is adversely affected by the effects of COVID-19, and large-scale scoliosis screening for teenagers after the pandemic has not been reported. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of incorrect posture among Chinese adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS:This was a large-scale cross-sectional study based on school scoliosis screening. Each student underwent visual inspection, Adam's forward bending test, and trunk rotation angle measurement. A scoliometer was used for posture assessment. The participants were subgrouped based on sex, age, and ethnicity to compare the prevalence of suspected scoliosis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression (LR) models were used to evaluate factors associated with suspected scoliosis. RESULTS:During the post-COVID-19 pandemic period, 1,793,787 students participated. The overall prevalence of incorrect postures among Chinese adolescents was 79.92%, and the most common incorrect postures were high and low shoulders (74.18%) and scapular tilt (70.46%). A total of 97,529 students (5.44%) were suspected to have scoliosis. More females (7.5%) than males (3.7%) and more students aged > 15 years (15.12%) than those aged 10-15 years (7.58%) and < 10 years (0.88%) were suspected to have scoliosis. Univariate LR analysis showed that sex, age, grade, and various incorrect postures were significantly associated with suspected scoliosis. Multivariate LR analysis showed that being female (OR = 2.54, 95% CI: 1.68-3.85), age of 10-15 years (OR = 30.34, 95% CI: 4.99-12.64), and ages of > 15 years (OR = 22.30, 95% CI: 10.84-45.87), and incorrect posture, especially the lumbar eminence and right rib hump were high risk factors for suspected scoliosis. CONCLUSIONS:The prevalence of incorrect posture and suspected scoliosis among Chinese adolescents increased significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Early screening of high-risk populations for suspected scoliosis and effective interventions should be implemented to prevent adolescent idiopathic scoliosis during the post-COVID-19 period.

This study examines the relationship between stopping a planned gait initiation due to sudden environmental changes and maintaining body stability. Using a gait initiation version of the Stop Signal Task (SST), we studied changes in anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) during gait initiation and suppression. We found that trial-level variables, such as the time to start or stop stepping, interacted with biomechanical factors like the center of mass displacement relative to the base of support affecting performance. A critical biomechanical threshold was identified, beyond which stopping movement was unlikely. These findings highlight the strong link between limb action control and body equilibrium, offering a framework within a motor control paradigm. By integrating biomechanical elements, the model effectively simulates real-life scenarios, identifying key variables for studying neural correlations between action and postural control, and aiding in the development of injury prevention and rehabilitation tools for individuals with movement and posture impairments.

BackgroundPosture assessment is an important part of clinical physical examination. Head posture changes should be considered in the measurement of the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position.ObjectiveTo compare the craniofacial morphology and hyoid bone position in the neutral head posture (NHP) and forward head posture (FHP) in healthy individuals.MethodsForty healthy participants (16 men and 24 women) were included in this study. Using lateral cephalograms, we assessed the craniofacial, craniocervical, and hyoid bone positions based on 27 distinct variables. The paired-samples -test and Pearson's correlation analysis were employed to compare the postures.ResultsSignificant differences in the craniocervical angles were noted between the NHP and FHP. For the hyoid bone position, all parameters except one presented differences. Vertical variables of craniofacial morphology were influenced by head posture. Pearson's correlation coefficients showed that head posture was significantly correlated with craniofacial morphology, particularly for vertical variables.ConclusionsThis study identified a relationship between the craniocervical and hyoid positions and craniofacial morphology. These findings suggest that different head postures can influence the hyoid position and craniofacial morphology. Hence, for studies involving these parameters and related conditions, maintaining cervical spine posture is crucial.

We study the correlations between redirected walking (RDW) rotation gains and patterns in users' posture and gaze data during locomotion in virtual reality (VR). To do this, we conducted a psychophysical experiment to measure users' sensitivity to RDW rotation gains and collect gaze and posture data during the experiment. Using multilevel modeling, we studied how different factors of the VR system and user affected their physiological signals. In particular, we studied the effects of redirection gain, trial duration, trial number (i.e., time spent in VR), and participant gender on postural sway, gaze velocity (a proxy for gaze stability), and saccade and blink rate. Our results showed that, in general, physiological signals were significantly positively correlated with the strength of redirection gain, the duration of trials, and the trial number. Gaze velocity was negatively correlated with trial duration. Additionally, we measured users' sensitivity to rotation gains in well-lit (photopic) and dimly-lit (mesopic) virtual lighting conditions. Results showed that there were no significant differences in RDW detection thresholds between the photopic and mesopic luminance conditions.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:Posture is often associated with pain by patients, professionals, and health information channels. However, the extent to which patients perceive the relationship between posture and chronic pain is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate and understand the beliefs and attitudes related to posture among patients with chronic low back pain. METHODS:This is a qualitative descriptive study that investigated individuals with chronic low back pain, who were on the waiting list for physiotherapy. Data were collected through individual and semi-structured interviews. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS:Fifteen adults (11 women and 4 men) were interviewed. Three themes were identified and mapped within the dimensions proposed by the Common Sense Model: (1) Identity, (2) Cause and (3) Control. Participants' statements about posture predominantly followed the biomedical model, with participants holding a mental representation of a 'correct' posture necessary for maintaining a healthy spine. They associated perceived incorrect postures or positions with the cause or worsening of pain. To control symptoms, participants believed that constant care and monitoring of posture in various situations were necessary. CONCLUSION:Misconceptions about ideal posture and its relationship to chronic pain can lead individuals with low back pain to engage in constant monitoring and avoid certain movements and positions in daily activities. These beliefs may negatively impact prognosis, contribute to the maintenance of symptoms, and affect adherence to treatments.

Background:Adults in modern society spend most of their time in a sitting position. However, sitting for long periods of time can affect the length and sensation of the quadriceps muscle and negatively affect the performance of functional tasks required in daily life. In addition, it may have different characteristics according to sitting postures. Aim:The aim of this study is to investigate the differences in quadriceps muscle activity during stair climbing and descending based on various sitting postures. Methods:Thirty healthy adult women were classified into sitting upright (SU), sitting with legs crossed (SLC), and sitting with ankles crossed over knees (SAC). The muscle activities of the vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateral (VL), and rectus femoris (RF) were collected during climbing and descending the stairs three times each. After which a sitting posture was maintained for 15 min, the post-measurement was performed in the same way as the pre-measurement. One-way analysis of variance or Kruskal-Walli's test was used to check homogeneity between each group, least significant difference (LSD) was used for testing. Paired-sample -test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to check before-and-after differences within the group. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to determine between-group and within-group interactions. Results:VM muscles were significantly decreased after maintaining a sitting posture during descending stairs of SAC group ( = 0.047). In conclusion, this study indicates that maintaining a SAC sitting posture for a certain period causes a temporary decrease in muscle activity of the VM muscle during descending stairs. This provides important implications for early treatment to manage knee pain and strengthen quadriceps muscles in women. Future studies should focus on groups with patellofemoral pain syndrome or knee pain to better understand the impact of sitting posture on quadriceps activity.

Background:Although the relationship between posture and back pain is still under debate, the potential role of body alignment highlights the importance of postural assessment in the health sector. Despite growing concern about musculoskeletal issues, there remains a lack of consensus on effective methods for detecting postural anomalies. Methods:This observational study compared postural assessments conducted by orthopedic specialists with those obtained through rasterstereographical spine scans using the DIERS formetric system. Fifty-four children from the third grade (mean age 9.4 years) underwent both assessments, allowing for a comprehensive examination of orthopedic abnormalities. Statistical analysis, including McNemar tests, was employed to compare the results of the assessments and evaluate potential discrepancies. Results:The comparison between the orthopedic examination and the DIERS scan revealed significant differences in assessing trunk imbalance ( < 0.001), thoracic kyphosis ( < 0.001), and lumbar lordosis ( < 0.001). Additionally, the study identified a high prevalence of orthopedic abnormalities, with 79.6% of the examined children exhibiting at least one issue in the orthopedic visual assessment. Conclusions:The study highlights the divergence between orthopedic evaluations and DIERS scans, emphasizing the challenges in achieving consistent postural assessments. The static analysis provided by the DIERS system, which quantifies posture in angles and distances, contrasts with the dynamic, functionality-focused approach of orthopedic examinations. The findings raise questions about the practicality and significance of integrating rasterstereography into routine pediatric orthopedic practice. The results underscore the complexity of postural evaluations and advocate for a comprehensive approach to address the multifaceted nature of back health in children.

BACKGROUND:Postural changes are considered a public health issue and have gathered significant interest in both research and clinical practice. AIMS:To evaluate the effectiveness of Global Postural Reeducation (GPR) in improving postural changes and postural stability in healthy young adults. Additionally, this study aims to identify the main postural changes in the sample population. METHODS:A longitudinal study was conducted with a sample of students (n = 38) from the 2nd and 3rd years of undergraduate programs at Coimbra Health School, divided into an experimental group (EG) with 20 subjects and a control group (CG) with 18 subjects. The EG underwent a GPR intervention, while the CG received no intervention. Postural changes were assessed using a 3D motion analysis system (Qualisys), and stabilometry was evaluated using a Bertec force platform. RESULTS:At baseline (T0), the groups were homogeneous regarding sample characterization variables, as well as postural and stabilometric variables ( > 0.05). After four weeks of the intervention (T1), no significant differences were observed between the EG and CG for any of the variables studied ( > 0.05). However, within-group analysis for the experimental group revealed a significant difference ( = 0.04) in anterior-posterior velocity, indicating a reduction in this parameter from T0 to T1. In the control group, a significant difference was observed ( = 0.03) in the left knee valgus, indicating a reduction in valgus alignment. CONCLUSIONS:GPR does not appear to be effective in improving postural changes or center of pressure displacement in healthy young students.

BACKGROUND:A specific pathological postural adaptation is suspected in patients exhibiting maxillo-mandibular deformity (MMD); however, none study reported a correlation between facial dimensions and posture. In this study, we hypothesized that pathological postural adaptations are related to long-face deformity and subsequent oral breathing in patients with MMD METHODS: Thirty patients with MMD and 20 healthy subjects. Breathing mode, postural alignment and cephalometry were analyzed through a biplanar X-ray (EOS imaging®) of the skeleton in an upright position, followed by three-dimensional reconstruction. RESULTS:Patients with MMD exhibited hyperkyphosis of the lower region of the cervical spine (C3-C7 angle: 10.6° [3.9; 17.5] vs. 3.2° [-6.4; 7.6], p < 0.01), forward head posture (OD-C7 angle: 10.5° [8.5; 15.1] vs. 6.2° [3.0; 8.4], p < 0.01), and backward sagittal balance compared with controls (sagittal vertical axis:15.7 mm [-25.9; -5.2] vs. -1.4 mm [-17.8; 7.0], p = 0.014). Cervical hyperkyphosis, the forward head posture, and the backward sagittal balance were related to higher values of the Frankfort-mandibular plane angle (a cephalometric variable used to assess face length). In patient with MMD, oral breathing was correlated to the FMA angle. CONCLUSION:MMD is associated with a specific pathological postural adaptation which is correlated with Long-face deformity and oral breathing. Our results suggest that the altered posture originates from the upper airways.

INTRODUCTION:Forward head posture is a common postural issue across all age groups, often linked to the overuse of electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, leading to poor posture in children. Allergic rhinitis is also prevalent in children, but its effects on musculoskeletal and psychological health are not well understood. OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to explore the relationship between allergic rhinitis, forward head posture, and anxiety levels in Iranian children aged 7-12 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS:Fifty children aged 7-12 were recruited from the Allergy-Infection Clinic at Bandar Abbas Children's Hospital. The participants were divided into two groups: 25 healthy children and 25 children diagnosed with allergic rhinitis. Anxiety levels were assessed using the Spence Anxiety Scale, while forward head posture was measured by analyzing photographs of the children's body profiles using AutoCAD software. RESULTS:Of the total participants, 24 children (46%) exhibited a forward head posture, defined as a craniovertebral angle of less than 48 degrees. Among these, 14 (56%) were in the allergic rhinitis group and 10 (40%) were in the healthy group. However, there was no statistically significant association between allergic rhinitis, forward head posture, and anxiety based on age, gender, or duration of nasal allergy. CONCLUSION:The study found no significant relationship between allergic rhinitis, forward head posture, and anxiety. The findings highlight the need for increased awareness of proper posture, particularly in relation to the use of electronic devices, and the importance of evaluating postural disorders in children.

BackgroundPatients with persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) exhibit altered postural and gait dynamics, but development of these changes following precipitating illnesses is poorly understood.ObjectiveTo compare posture and gait metrics in patients with PPPD or subacute unilateral vestibulopathies (sAUVP) to healthy controls (HC).MethodsTen patients with sAUVP, nine with PPPD, and eleven HC completed the 10 Meters Walk Test (10MWT) (an eyes open task) and Fukuda Stepping Test (FST) (an eyes closed task). Gait stability, symmetry, and smoothness were compared among groups and correlated with Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scores.Results10MWT - Patients with PPPD had lower pelvis stability and gait symmetry than HCs. Patients with sAUVP had only lower pelvis stability. FST - Patients with PPPD and sAUVP had lower gait smoothness than HCs. Patients with sAUVP also had lower gait symmetry. Among patients with PPPD, DHI scores correlated positively with head stability.ConclusionsPPPD and sAUVP caused abnormal pelvis stability when walking and gait smoothness when stepping but differed in effects on gait symmetry with the presence/absence of visual inputs. For PPPD, visual stimuli had destabilizing effects, whereas for sAUVP vision aided stability. Symptom severity in patients with PPPD was related to head stability.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT:Cervical sagittal balance parameters are an important aid in surgical decision-making and influence outcome in cervical spine surgery. In current literature, the normative values of these parameters vary highly within and between patients. This variability might be attributed to body posture. PURPOSE:The primary aim is to review the literature on the influence of body posture, including studies that compare sitting or standing positions possibly varying in arm positions, on cervical alignment measured in the sagittal plane on X-rays. STUDY DESIGN:A systematic review was performed. METHODS:PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL were systematically searched for articles published up to and including May 2024. The primary outcome was variability in cervical alignment in the sagittal plane as measured in altering body postures on X-rays. Quality of the included articles was assessed with the QUADAS-2 tool. RESULTS:Out of 17,628 screened articles, 8 were eligible for inclusion. Articles were excluded based on irrelevant outcomes (n=10,372), duplicates (n=4,315), wrong study design (n=1,462), or the influence of body posture was not described (n=612). Overall cervical alignment ranged from 33.3° lordosis to 3.5° kyphosis. In all studies, statistically significant differences in T1 Slope (T1S), C2C7 Sagittal Vertical Axis (SVA), McGregor Slope (McGS), or C7 SVA were observed with respect to body posture. The observed differences between postures for cervical alignment ranged from 1° to 16.6°. CONCLUSIONS:Body posture significantly influences cervical alignment values measured in the sagittal plane on X-rays. Studies investigating this influence are scarce and vary highly in investigated body postures. Standardization of body posture is imperative to enable optimal comparison of cervical sagittal balance parameters within and between patients, but also between studies. Moreover, the high variability observed raises questions about the comparability of measured values in previously published studies.

Purpose:This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the relationship between occipital spur (OS) with both craniocervical posture and craniofacial morphology. Methods:The study involved 240 lateral cephalograms from subjects with and without OS. The craniocervical posture and facial morphology of every individual were assessed through Uceph software analysis of their cephalograms, considering 32 variables. The Independent -test and the Mann-Whitney -test were used to evaluate the relationships between the measures and OS. Differences in craniocervical posture and craniofacial morphology between the two groups were investigated by logistic regression. Results:Subjects with OS exhibited more severe forward head posture (FHP) (larger C0-C1, Ba-C3ia, C2ap-C4ip, craniocervical angle, CVT-OPT, and NSL-C2') and larger facial configuration (greater mandibular body length, posterior cranial base length, and posterior facial height) than the subjects without OS. Larger C2ap-C4ip (OR 1.53; 95% CI 1.282~1.82), Craniocervical angle (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.457~1.977) and NSL-C2' (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.097~1.264), were associated with greater likelihood of having OS. Conclusion:The subjects with OS were more prone to forward head posture than the control group. For subjects observed with OS on cephalograms, attention should be given to their possible abnormal cervical and head postures.

Manual therapies like Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) and Gentle Touch Intervention (GTI) are widely employed for improving posture and spinal alignment, but their effects as measured using advanced technologies remain underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the short-term postural effects of these interventions using a non-invasive three-dimensional rasterstereography-based approach, focusing on the cervical arrow, lumbar arrow, kyphotic angle, and lordotic angle parameters. A three-armed randomized controlled trial was conducted with 165 healthy participants. The subjects were divided into control (CTRL), OMT, and GTI groups. Their postural parameters were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Spine3D system by Sensor Medica (Guidonia Montecelio, Italy). The statistical analyses included paired -tests and an ANOVA, with the significance set at < 0.05. Significant reductions in the cervical arrow were observed in both the OMT ( < 0.005) and GTI ( < 0.05) groups, while the kyphotic angle significantly improved only in the GTI group ( < 0.05). No significant changes were found in the lumbar arrow or the lordotic angle across the groups. The control group showed no postural variations, reinforcing the specificity of the interventions. Both OMT and GTI influence spinal posture, particularly in the cervical and thoracic regions. GTI, with its gentle approach, demonstrated unique effects on the thoracic curvature, suggesting neurophysiological mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of manual therapies for posture modulation and suggest future research should explore their long-term benefits and applications in clinical populations.

The significance of human posture extends beyond mere body stance to its profound impact on long-term physical well-being. Guided by the Roy adaptation model and Walker and Avant's approach, in this paper the author presents a concept analysis of posture, which resulted in a proposed explanatory theory of postural functional status. By identifying attributes of posture (alignment, adaptation, and awareness), its antecedents (body parts, force of gravity, and musculoskeletal system), and consequences, this concept analysis offers fresh ideas to promote and shape postural future in nursing, wellness, and public health, with an aim to sustain the quality-of-life for individuals of all ages.

Asthma may lead to musculoskeletal dysfunction, including postural abnormalities. This study aimed to compare pulmonary function, body posture, and dynamic balance in young adults with childhood-onset asthma and healthy peers. This cross-sectional study included 124 participants evenly split between asthma and healthy groups. Assessments covered pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, postural balance, and body posture. We observed differences between groups in pulmonary function variables and respiratory muscle strength (Forced Expiratory Volume in the First Second (FEV 1); p = 0.005, forced vital capacity (FVC);.p = 0.002, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR); p = 0.03) and respiratory muscle strength (maximal. expiratory pressure (MEP); p = 0.05). There was no difference in postural balance and body posture between groups. Moderate correlations were noted between postural balance (double leg eye closed) and pulmonary function (r = 0.38-0.43; p < 0.001), but not between body posture and pulmonary function. These findings suggest childhood-onset asthma in young adults, particularly mild to moderate cases, is associated with impaired pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength but does not significantly impact postural balance or body posture compared to healthy peers. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05373511.

This study examines the disparities between people suffering from chronic lower back pain (LBP) and those who do not, with a particular focus on how extended periods of sitting with poor posture affect fatigue and discomfort in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles among office employees. Eighty university staff and students were enrolled in the study by matching age, BMI, and type of job. They were split into two groups later: a control group (n = 40) with no back pain and a pain group (n = 40) with a history of lower back pain (LBP). Pain intensity was measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), while SCM muscle activity was measured via surface electromyography (sEMG) during both normal and hunched postures. Participants maintained each posture for a specified duration of 30 min. The study revealed that Pain_Hunched group exhibited significantly reduced SCM muscle activity compared to the Control_Hunched group (mean difference = -9.728, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the SCM muscle activity in the Pain_Hunched group was significantly lower than that of the Pain_Normal group (mean difference = -2.769, p = 0.041). These results highlight the heightened SCM muscle activity during hunched postures, particularly in individuals with LBP. The results emphasize the crucial role posture plays in influencing SCM muscle activation and pain perception among individuals with LBP. These results imply that correcting one's posture could be a useful pain management intervention technique for this population. The long-term impacts of postural adjustments and their possible advantages in clinical contexts, such as incorporating ergonomic interventions or specific exercise regimens, should be investigated in future studies.

In this study, we contend the firing properties of motor units change due to nonphysiological sources. We specifically ask whether changes in the fibular nerve length, without a concurrent change in tibialis anterior architecture, affect motor unit firing and recruitment strategies. We tested this hypothesis based on high-density surface electromyograms (EMGs) collected from the tibialis anterior of 18 healthy young adults for two hip postures, flexed and extended. To control for changes in peripheral nerve length, conduction time between electrical stimulation and generation of compound action potentials in extensor digitorum brevis was measured for the two hip postures during rest. Motor units were decomposed from EMGs obtained during sustained isometric dorsiflexion at 10% of the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), and during ramp isometric contractions up to 20% MVC. Individual motor unit firings were identified and tracked between the two postures. Nerve conduction time was significantly shorter in hip flexed than in hip extended posture ( < 0.01), suggesting that peripheral nerve was stretched in the flexed hip posture. MVC torque was not different between flexed and extended postures ( = 0.254). Motor unit firing rates during sustained contraction at 10% of MVC, and during ramp-up contraction to 20% of MVC were significantly lower during flexed hip posture than during extended hip posture ( < 0.05). Hip flexion posture, which likely result in a stretching of the fibular nerve, was observed to reduce the average firing rate of active motor units during relatively low contractions. Peripheral nerve condition can affect motor unit activations. Sciatic and fibular nerves are stretched by ankle dorsiflexion, knee extension, and hip flexion. Hip flexion posture, which likely result in a stretching of the fibular nerve, was observed to reduce the average firing rate of active motor units during relatively low contraction. Proximal joint posture, which does not directly influence muscle architecture, should be considered to interpret neural input properties.

BACKGROUND:The standard posture described in Kendall's manual is commonly used for postural assessment. However, no bibliographic reference was provided to support its use. OBJECTIVE:To identify the original source and the procedure followed for the design of that posture and to compare it with current literature on the subject. METHODS:In accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews recommendations, PubMed and Scopus were searched using the terms "standing posture", "plum line," and "gravity line". Publications in English, French, German, or Spanish that referred to posture in adults without pathology were included. RESULTS:Six articles and 3 books were included in the final analysis. An identical posture to that described in Kendall's manual was identified in an early 19th-century work carried out with the unrealistic objective of maintaining static bipedal standing without muscular support, and including several anatomical misconceptions. Furthermore, the "ideal alignment" described in Kendall's manual does not correspond to the actual line of gravity, the comfortable posture, or natural postural compensations due to age, gender, or race. CONCLUSION:The utilization of this standard to ascertain postural deficiencies is not supported by current evidence and may result in numerous false positives, particularly in the elderly.

Postural differences have been evident between female and male athletes, but there is insufficient information on how these differences are characterized in different sports branches. Our aim in this study was to compare the static postures of female and male athletes paired into identical sports. We included 172 athlete participants (86 female and 86 males) who were paired by same chronological age, sporting age, and sports branch. We performed posture analyses of these athletes, using the DIERS formetric 4D device. Specifically, we evaluated and recorded their trunk length, sacrum distance, sagittal imbalance, coronal imbalance, pelvic obliquity, pelvic torsion, pelvic inclinations, pelvic rotation, kyphotic angle, lordotic angle, vertebral rotation, and trunk torsion. We found comparable sagittal imbalance, coronal imbalance, pelvic rotation, vertebral rotation, and trunk torsion similar in females and males ( > .05), but females had a wider sacrum, their pelvic structures were more oblique and anteriorly tilted, and they had more pelvic inclination angles and bigger kyphosis and lordosis angles. Male athletes had longer trunk lengths and more pelvic torsion. The kyphosis and lordosis angles of the female athletes were bigger than those of male athletes, but they were still within normal limits. The lumbar lordosis angles of male athletes were below normal limits. In conclusion, female athletes exhibited a more balanced spinal posture than male athletes.

In recent years, Romania's stomatology private practice sector has seen substantial growth, with many dentists fully committing to building and expanding their own practices, often funded by their personal income. This study aimed to explore how various postures affect the muscle groups of dentists (380), particularly focusing on identifying positions that may jeopardize their musculoskeletal health. A group of dentists effectively participated in this study (10), adhering to their regular work routines while wearing wearable sensors on their backs to monitor posture and activity. The data gathered from these sensors were analyzed using the RULA (rapid upper-limb assessment) and REBA (rapid entire-body assessment) tools. The findings indicated that the head and shoulder movements during dental procedures involved considerable and repetitive angular shifts, which could strain the neck and back muscles and heighten the risk of musculoskeletal problems. Additionally, the standing postures adopted by the dentists were associated with an increased risk of postural issues and greater overall fatigue. Extended periods of trunk and head tilting were also identified as contributing factors to posture-related challenges.

Knowledge of embryonic body posture as a reflection of neurodevelopment is limited. Here, we investigate embryonic body posture, preference, symmetry, and lateralization during periods of rest using virtual reality (VR) and four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound techniques to enhance our knowledge of neurodevelopment. It is hypothesized that lateralization and asymmetry in embryonic posture are absent. Embryos from low-risk pregnancies at 9 weeks gestational age (GA) were analyzed using a 30-min 4D ultrasound and VR techniques. In the middle of an embryonic resting period, the total body posture was determined by combining joint positions. Interindividual and intraindividual postures were analyzed over time to identify posture preferences, asymmetry, and lateralization. Sixteen embryos (N = 210 middle frames out of 210 resting periods) displayed 27 different embryonic body postures. Interindividual and intraindividual variations in postures were seen. Asymmetry was noted in upper extremities, whereas lateralization of the head and spine was observed in nine embryos. Intraindividual and interindividual variation in embryonic posture at 9 weeks' GA is seen, suggesting the presence of supraspinal influences on body posture this early. Future interdisciplinary longitudinal studies on embryonic posture may provide further insights into embryonic central nervous system development, contributing to our understanding of embryonic health.

Posterior edentulism reduces occlusal support, thus increasing the risk and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder. No previous study has explored its effect on the treatment of temporomandibular disorders. This study aimed to examine the relationship between neck posture, balance, and posterior edentulism in patients with temporomandibular disorder and compare the effectiveness of physical therapy. In a quasi-experimental controlled trial, 26 patients with temporomandibular disorder were divided into 13 in the partly edentulous group and 13 in the dentate group. Both groups received manual therapy, postural exercises, deep neck flexor stabilization, and Kinesio tapping for 6 weeks. Each participant completed 12 physiotherapy sessions, administered twice weekly, with a minimum interval of 48 hours between sessions. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after the 6-week program, including pain, mandibular movement, posture, and balance. The physical therapy program significantly improved all measured outcomes ( < .05). Furthermore, the partially edentulous group showed more remarkable improvement in pain and balance compared to the dentate group ( < .05). Postural exercises effectively alleviate symptoms in patients with temporomandibular disorder, with more significant improvements observed in the partially edentulous group than in the dentate group.

Occupational reaching tasks performed with faulty postures may contribute to inefficient movement patterns that could lead to injury. Understanding relationships between posture and muscle activation during reaching tasks may elucidate movement patterns that increase occupational injury risk in workers. This study assessed whether postural factors and muscle activation predict forward reaching movement performance and accuracy. . Predictor variables of forward shoulder posture (FSP), pectoral length, upper (UT), middle (MT) and lower trapezius (LT) and pectoralis major (PM) muscle activation, and UT:PM, MT:PM, and LT:PM co-activation during forward reaching were analysed for 56 individuals. Sequential linear regression equations assessed reaching variance. . For females, FSP, UT activation, and UT:PM co-activation explained 36% of reaction time (RT) variance, and MT:PM co-activation explained 14% of endpoint accuracy variance. For males, MT:PM co-activation explained 17% of movement time (MvT) variance, and FSP, MT:PM co-activation and MT explained 23% of accuracy variance. Increased co-activation was a predictor of movement performance; however, performance outcome variables differed between males (MvT) and females (RT). Muscle co-activation coupled with FSP and posterior shoulder muscle activation resulted in differences in predicting reaching performance variance. Practitioners might consider evaluating these muscle activation and postural factors in occupational reaching tasks.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04944745.

BACKGROUND:Rounded shoulder (RS) posture causes neck and shoulder pathologies. Mechanical correction taping (MCT) is often incorporated into postural corrective therapies; however, its effects on muscle stiffness are unclear. OBJECTIVE:We investigated the effect of MCT with different tape fabrics, along with exercise, on upper trapezius and pectoralis minor muscle stiffness and the posture of sedentary workers. DESIGN AND SETTING:A randomized controlled study was performed at Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey. METHODS:The study included 39 workers with RS posture. Two intervention groups (performance tape: PT and classic tape: CT) were taped twice a week and administered a home exercise program for 4 weeks. The control (C) group performed only home exercises. RS was measured using an acromion-testing table (AT), stiffness using shear wave elastography ultrasound, and shoulder angle (SA) using a smartphone application at baseline and 4 weeks. Time and group interactions were determined using 3 × 2 mixed analysis of variance. RESULTS:Intragroup analyses revealed a significant main effect of time on AT distance (η2 = 0.445) and SA (η2 = 0.325) in the PT and C groups (P < 0.05) and left upper trapezius stiffness (η2 = 0.287) in the CT and C groups (P < 0.05). In the post hoc analyses, no difference was noted between the groups from baseline to 4 weeks (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION:Scapular MCT added to postural exercises did not show any difference between the intervention groups and controls in terms of muscle stiffness and posture in sedentary workers.