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How do I Evaluate Posture 1-5?

Evaluating posture is a skill for family physicians, chiropractors, orthopedics, physical therapists and massage therapists. Poor posture can reveal potential problems within the muscular system, skeletal system and the musculoskeletal system.

  1. Good Posture

    • Good posture is observed when the head, shoulders, spine, hips, legs and ankles are in line. When looking at the front of the human body, the body should be symmetrical in balance on both sides. Shoulder height, head tilt and hip height should all be aligned.

    Level 1 - 5 Scale

    • Scaling postural impairment from level 1 to 5 describes the severity of impairment to posture. Level 1 is the most severe and level 5 is no impairment. The inability to stand balanced for any length of time or sit balanced for less than 30 seconds indicates a level 1 impairment. Ability to remain balanced and upright in the seated position for up to five minutes and in standing position for less than 30 seconds indicates level 2 impairment. A level 3 impairment is having the ability to remain balanced in a seated position for longer than three minutes and the ability to regain balance after outside disturbance while performing a task. Mild dysfunction of balance and postural control is a level 4 impairment. A level 5 impairment is no inability to remain balanced while sitting, standing, or performing a task.

    Correcting Posture

    • Not all postural dysfunction can be self-corrected. Problems with spine structure and some deformities are either correctable by surgery or not at all. Ergonomically correct chairs and office equipment are available that aid in correct posture while working at a desk. Yoga can help realign the body and improve posture, and some exercises are designed for posture improvement.

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