lab 2: static posture analysis

What is the purpose of static posture analysis?

To identify obvious gross postural imbalances using a plumb line, wall chart, and deviation charts.

Why should clients remove shoes during a posture analysis?

To better observe natural posture and alignment of the feet and ankles.

Why should you avoid overanalyzing asymmetries?

Because the body is rarely perfectly symmetrical, and overanalysis may intimidate clients or cause fatigue that alters posture further.

In the frontal view, what reference point is used to align the plumb line?

Medial malleoli.

In the anterior view, what landmarks should the plumb line bisect?

Pubis → umbilicus → sternum → mandible → maxilla → frontal bone.

What does good anterior posture look like?

Palms facing thighs (thumbs visible), patellae pointing straight ahead, feet straight or slightly outward.

In the posterior view, what landmarks should the plumb line bisect?

Sacrum and spinous processes of spine.

What does good posterior posture look like?

Calcaneus perpendicular to floor, palms facing thighs (pinky side visible).

In the sagittal view, where should the plumb line pass?

Slightly anterior to lateral malleolus → anterior third of knee → greater trochanter → acromion → auditory meatus.

What does good sagittal posture look like?

Feet forward, knees neutral, backs of hands visible.

What does the transverse view assess?

Limb and torso rotation, pronation, supination.

What does the right-angle rule describe?

How the body aligns vertically across major joints (ankle, knee, shoulder, spine).

Why use the right-angle rule?

To identify static postural deviations in all three planes.

What are the five common postural deviations assessed?

• Ankle pronation/supination

• Hip adduction

• Pelvic tilt (anterior/posterior)

• Shoulder position & thoracic spine deviation

• Head position