A posterior pelvic tilt occurs when the front of the pelvis rises and the back of the pelvis drops. This causes the lumbar spine to flatten and is often associated with tight hamstrings and weak hip flexors, leading to a “flat back” posture.
Anterior Pelvic Tilt
An anterior pelvic tilt occurs when the front of the pelvis drops and the back of the pelvis rises. This is often caused by tight hip flexors and weak gluteal muscles, frequently leading to an increased curve in the lower back (hyperlordosis) and protruding abdomen.
Plumb Line Assessment
A plumb line assessment is a postural analysis tool where a vertical line (the plumb line) is used as a reference to evaluate the alignment of a person’s body parts from the side, front, or back. It helps identify deviations from “neutral” posture, such as forward head carriage or pelvic tilts.
Lower Crossed Syndrome
Lower Crossed Syndrome involves muscle imbalances in the lower body, specifically the pelvis and lumbar spine. It features tight hip flexors and thoracolumbar extensors crossing with weak abdominals and gluteus maximus, often resulting in an anterior pelvic tilt and hyperlordosis.
Upper Crossed Syndrome
Upper Crossed Syndrome is a postural pattern characterized by specific muscle imbalances in the upper body. It typically involves tight upper trapezius and levator scapulae crossing with tight pectorals, while the deep neck flexors and lower trapezius/serratus anterior are weak or inhibited.
Genu Varum
Genu Varum, commonly known as “bow-leggedness,” is a physical deformity marked by an outward bowing of the legs at the knees. When a person with genu varum stands with their feet together, there is a distinct gap between the knees, often placing extra stress on the medial aspect of the joint.
Genu Valgum
Genu Valgum, commonly known as “knock-knees,” is a postural misalignment where the knees angle inward and touch each other when the legs are straightened. This condition increases stress on the lateral compartment of the knee and is often assessed in lower body postural screenings.
Hyperkyphosis
Hyperkyphosis is an exaggerated outward curvature of the thoracic spine (upper back), resulting in a rounded or “hunchback” appearance. It is often caused by poor posture, muscle imbalances (like Upper Crossed Syndrome), or degenerative changes in the vertebrae.