Medical Publications

Postural and Respiratory Modulation of Autonomic Function, Pain, and Health

by John Lennon, BM, MM, C. Norman Shealy, MD, Roger K. Cady, MD, William Matta, PhD, Richard Cox, PhD, and William F. Simpson, PhD
Volume: AJPM Vol. 4 No. 1 January 1994 pgs 32-35

American Journal of Pain Management:

Abstract:
Posture and normal physiology and function are inter-related. Abnormal posture is evident in patients with chronic pain-related conditions including backache, headache, and stress-related illnesses. Posture training and gravity-centered breathing may play a role in comprehensive treatment of patients with chronic pain and stress related problems.

Highlights

Thoracic position effect on shoulder range of motion, strength, and three-dimensional scapular kinematics.

Kebaetse M, McClure P, Pratt NA.

Department of Physical Therapy, Allegheny University of the Health Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, USA.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of thoracic posture on scapular movement patterns, active range of motion (ROM) in scapular plane abduction, and isometric scapular plane abduction muscle force. STUDY DESIGN AND METHOD: Repeated measures design. There were 34 healthy subjects (mean age, 30.2 yrs). Each subject was positioned and stabilized while sitting in both erect and slouched trunk postures. In each sitting posture a three-dimensional electromechanical digitizer was used to measure thoracic flexion and scapular position and orientation in three planes. Measurements were taken with the arm (1) at the side, (2) abducted to horizontal in the scapular plane, and (3) at maximum scapular plane abduction. In each posture, isometric abduction muscle force was measured with the arm at the side and abducted to horizontal in the scapular plane. RESULTS: In the slouched posture, the scapula was significantly more elevated in the interval between 0 to 90 degrees abduction. In the interval between 90 degrees and maximum abduction, the slouched posture resulted in significantly less scapular posterior tilting. There was significantly less active shoulder abduction ROM in the slouched posture (mean difference = 23.6 degrees +/- 10.7 degrees). Muscle force was not different between slouched and erect postures with the arm at the side, but with the arm horizontal muscle force was decreased 16.2% in the slouched position. CONCLUSION: Thoracic spine position significantly affects scapular kinematics during scapular plane abduction, and the slouched posture is associated with decreased muscle force.

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