Abnormal Posture

Abnormal Posture

Assessing Abnormal Posture: Dr. Rothbart’s Research and its Benefits for Overall Health

Introduction

Posture plays a crucial role in maintaining musculoskeletal health and overall well-being. Abnormal posture can lead to a range of issues, including musculoskeletal imbalances, pain, and reduced functional capacity. Dr. Brian A. Rothbart’s research has highlighted the significance of abnormal posture in contributing to various health problems. In this article, we delve into the tests used to assess abnormal posture based on Dr. Rothbart’s research and discuss the benefits it holds for overall health.

Understanding Abnormal Posture

Abnormal posture refers to deviations from the ideal alignment of the musculoskeletal system. It can result from factors such as muscle imbalances, structural abnormalities, and habitual postural habits. Over time, abnormal posture can lead to biomechanical stress, altered movement patterns, and increased risk of injury.

Dr. Rothbart’s Research on Abnormal Posture

Dr. Brian A. Rothbart is a leading researcher in the field of postural assessment and its impact on health. He has developed a unique understanding of the role of the foot’s structure and function in contributing to abnormal posture and associated health problems. His research focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of abnormal posture to achieve long-term health improvements.

Tests for Abnormal Posture:

  1. Rothbart’s Foot Posture Index (FPI): The FPI is a validated tool used to assess foot structure and function. It evaluates various parameters such as arch height, forefoot alignment, and rearfoot position. By analyzing these parameters, healthcare professionals can identify abnormalities in foot posture that may contribute to overall postural imbalances.
  2. Standing Posture Assessment: Assessing standing posture involves observing the alignment of key anatomical landmarks, such as the head, shoulders, spine, pelvis, and lower limbs. Deviations from the optimal alignment can indicate postural imbalances, muscle asymmetry, and potential compensatory mechanisms.
  3. Gait Analysis: Gait analysis examines an individual’s walking pattern to identify abnormal movement patterns, asymmetry, and compensations. Observing factors such as stride length, foot contact, and joint alignment can provide valuable insights into the impact of abnormal posture on functional movements.

Benefits for Overall Health:

  1. Pain Reduction: Correcting abnormal posture can help alleviate musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. By identifying and addressing the root cause of postural imbalances, individuals can reduce stress on joints, muscles, and ligaments, allowing for improved pain management and enhanced functional ability.
  2. Enhanced Movement Efficiency: Improving posture positively impacts movement patterns and overall biomechanics. Correct alignment and muscle balance facilitate more efficient movement, reducing the risk of overuse injuries and enhancing performance in physical activities.
  3. Improved Respiratory Function: Abnormal posture can affect the position and function of the respiratory muscles, leading to restricted breathing and reduced lung capacity. Correcting postural imbalances can optimize respiratory mechanics, supporting better oxygen exchange, and improving overall lung function.
  4. Prevention of Degenerative Conditions: Abnormal posture places additional stress on joints, leading to wear and tear over time. By addressing postural imbalances, individuals can reduce the risk of developing degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and joint dysfunction.
  5. Enhanced Quality of Life: Correcting abnormal posture contributes to an improved overall quality of life. Reduced pain, enhanced movement, and improved physical function allow individuals to engage more fully in daily activities, recreational pursuits, and sports, fostering a sense of well-being and vitality.

Abnormal Posture and Our Feet

I have been working with chiropractors and osteopaths for a number of years now and always wondered why some patients needed to go back for more adjustments so many times per year. During my research to find out the answer I came across Professor Rothbart’s work on hyperpronation and the relationship between the feet and posture.

Basically, if you are born with a defect of the feet, as many people are which causes hyperpronation (a leaning of the body), then this will affect the spine and your posture. This will result in many of the symptoms that you go to a chiropractor for – low back pain, knee pain, neck pain, muscle pains, and an increased propensity for musculoskeletal injuries. Headaches, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, blisters, and calluses are all common problems of hyperpronation.

Hyperpronation

As we age and become more sedentary our muscles become weaker it becomes harder to maintain the body as upright as possible – this is called hyperpronation. Over time the body moves toward a collapsing posture – bio-implosion: a forward-leaning posture, head forward of the spine, rounded shoulders, forward rotated pelvis, knees traveling inward, collapsing ankles, and an unstable gait. All of these changes are visible. Some are less pronounced than others, but to the experienced observer, it is obvious.

More than three decades ago, Dr. Brian Rothbart DPM was running a very successful surgical podiatry practice in California. He too was seeing too many of his patients redeveloping the problems that were corrected during surgery. Dr. Rothbart started thinking laterally and by combining biomechanics and 21st Century 3-D computer modeling he described the complex motion of the bones in the foot and lower extremity during normal gait and was able to clearly demonstrate the mechanics of hyperpronation.

Noting that as many infants hyperpronate, as do children and adults, Dr. Rothbart suspected that it was a congenital problem and not a condition developed during childhood as he noted that many infants and children were hyperpronaters. In further studying clinical features on the development and growth of the fetus, Dr. Rothbart was able to fully explain the origin of hyperpronation and support all his biomechanical findings.

He was also able to adjust the problem by designing and patenting proprioreceptor insoles that are easy to fit into the patient’s shoes and will rectify the hyperpronation and the body posture will return to normal and the symptoms related to the bad body posture will basically disappear (www.rothbart.org)

Now that he had discovered the cause of the hyperpronation, the tools to correct it became evident, and he was able to give up surgery for something a lot simpler. These foot mechanics have now been named after him, “Rothbart’s Foot Structure” (RFS).

Conclusion

Assessing abnormal posture based on Dr. Rothbart’s research provides valuable insights into the root causes of postural imbalances and their impact on overall health. By utilizing tests such as the Foot Posture Index, standing posture assessment, and gait analysis, healthcare professionals can identify and address underlying structural and functional abnormalities. Correcting abnormal posture offers numerous benefits, including pain reduction, improved movement efficiency, enhanced respiratory function, prevention of degenerative conditions, and an overall improved quality of life. Collaborating with healthcare professionals experienced in postural assessment and corrective strategies can guide individuals toward optimal postural alignment and long-term health improvements.

At the Da Vinci Holistic Health Centre we can examine the patient for RFS and find the solution to these chronic problems by fitting Posture Control Insoles (PCI). We have worked with athletes with amazing success to their performance and efficiency, as well as many other chronic pain conditions.

Dr. Georgiou has been trained by Prof. Rothbart in the safe fitting of proprioreceptor insoles for Primus Metatarsus Supinatus (PMS) foot types.

 

VIDEOS TO WATCH

Pronation of Feet

Body Posture

Improving Body Posture with Proprioreceptive Insoles

Curing Chronic Pain

Contact us or book an appointment now.

 

Online Consultations With Dr. George

Important Articles

Related Posts

August 6, 2023

Understanding Fibromyalgia and Natural Approaches to Pain-Free Living Fibromyalgia is a chronic, misunderstood condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness. It affects millions of people worldwide, predominantly women. Fibromyalgia is challenging to diagnose and treat due to its complex and multifactorial nature. While conventional medicine can relieve symptoms, a natural approach to managing fibromyalgia may offer a more holistic and individualized solution. This article will explore fibromyalgia, its potential causes, and the natural approaches that promote pain-free living. Understanding Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that primarily affects the body's muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Its hallmark symptom is widespread pain, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties, commonly called "fibro fog." The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but researchers believe it involves a combination of factors, including: Central Sensitization: Fibromyalgia involves central sensitization, a condition where the central nervous system becomes overly sensitive to pain signals, amplifying pain sensations. Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Disruptions in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, may contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to fibromyalgia, with a family history of the condition being a potential risk factor. Physical Trauma and Stress: Physical injuries, infections, or significant emotional stress can trigger or worsen fibromyalgia symptoms. Natural Approaches to Pain-Free Living The natural approach to managing fibromyalgia focuses on improving overall well-being, addressing potential triggers, and reducing pain through non-pharmacological means. Some key natural approaches include: Mind-Body Therapies: Mind-body practices, such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi, can …

Irritable Bowel Syndrome
August 6, 2023

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning there are no structural abnormalities or specific diagnostic markers to identify the condition. Instead, the diagnosis is based on symptoms that fit specific criteria outlined in clinical guidelines. The primary symptoms of IBS include: Abdominal pain or discomfort Bloating and distension Altered bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two) Relief of symptoms after bowel movement It's essential to rule out other gastrointestinal conditions with similar symptoms before diagnosing IBS. IBS is often classified into three subtypes based on predominant bowel habits: IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), and mixed IBS (IBS-M). Potential Causes of IBS The exact cause of IBS remains unclear, and it likely involves a combination of factors. Some potential causes and triggers of IBS include: Gut-Brain Axis: The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in IBS, where communication between the gut and the brain is disrupted, leading to abnormal gut motility and sensitivity. Microbiome Imbalance: An imbalance in the gut microbiome, the vast community of microbes in the intestines, has been linked to IBS symptoms. Food Sensitivities: Some individuals with IBS may have sensitivities to certain foods, such as lactose or gluten, which can trigger symptoms. Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors, including stress and anxiety, can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Intestinal Inflammation: In some cases, low-grade inflammation in the intestines may contribute to IBS symptoms. Naturopathic Approaches for Managing IBS Naturopathic medicine is a holistic system of healthcare that emphasizes the body's …

Female Infertility
August 2, 2023

Female Infertility Patient Testimonial - Case 3, Mrs. P, age 48 Female Infertility Medical diagnosis: Mrs. P had suffered from gynaecological problems for longer than 22 years and headaches for more than 10 years. She had seen a total of 5 gynaecologists who tried contraceptive pills, IV hormonal injections to stimulate ovulation, and benign, fibrotic endometrial atrophic polyp with fibrosis, which was surgically removed in 2000 with the suggestion that she have a total hysterectomy that she refused. Six months later she had a D & C with histopathological analysis that found nothing abnormal. Blood hormonal assays showed high levels of testosterone that was probably responsible for her hirsutism in arms and legs. Polycystic ovaries were diagnosed by ultrasound scan in 1999 but no treatment was given for this. The sonography report read: “Both ovaries have multiple (at least 15 on each side) small follicular cysts with diameters not exceeding 5 mm. Her periods were very irregular with cycles ranging from 40-60 days. She also suffered from frequent migraines and chronic fatigue. Holistic diagnosis: Mrs. P came to me not so much for the sterility problem as she was already 47 years old and as they had been trying for over 25 years to have more children, she had given up on any chance of getting pregnant. She was more concerned about her increasing weight, her hirsutism (hair on the body), and headaches that were getting worse and were more and more frequent. Therefore, only a few tests were run and …

BICOM Bioresonance Device
July 12, 2023

Bicom Bioresonance Device Unveiling the Power of Energetic Healing Introduction The Bicom Bioresonance Device is a revolutionary tool that harnesses the principles of bioresonance therapy to promote healing and restore balance within the body. This advanced technology utilizes electromagnetic frequencies to detect and harmonize energetic imbalances, providing a non-invasive and holistic approach to well-being. Understanding Bioresonance Therapy Bioresonance therapy is based on the principle that every living organism emits electromagnetic frequencies, and these frequencies can provide valuable insights into an individual's health status. Bioresonance devices are designed to measure and analyze these frequencies to identify imbalances and assist in restoring optimal health. How Does the Bicom Bioresonance Device Work? The Bicom Bioresonance Device works by detecting and analyzing the electromagnetic frequencies emitted by the body. Here's how it operates: Analysis and Assessment: The device employs specialized sensors and electrodes to measure the electromagnetic frequencies emitted by the patient. These frequencies are then analyzed to identify imbalances, stressors, and potential underlying causes of health issues. Frequency Harmonization: Once the imbalances are identified, the device utilizes specific electromagnetic frequencies to harmonize and balance the body's energy field. The device emits corrective frequencies to counteract the disruptive frequencies detected during the assessment, helping restore the body's natural equilibrium. Benefits of the Bicom Bioresonance Device Non-Invasive and Painless: The Bicom Bioresonance Device offers a non-invasive and painless approach to health assessment and therapy. It does not require any needles or physical intervention, making it suitable for individuals of all ages, including children and those …

June 28, 2023

Spiritual Psychotherapy What is Pastoral or Spiritually-Focussed Psychotherapy? Pastoral or spiritually-focused psychotherapy recognizes the integral connection between an individual's spirituality and their mental and emotional well-being. This approach combines psychological principles with spiritual beliefs and practices to support individuals in their healing and personal growth journeys. Benefits of Spiritually-Focussed Psychotherapy Here are some benefits of pastoral or spiritually focused psychotherapy and the mind-heart connection: Integration of Spiritual Beliefs: Pastoral psychotherapy acknowledges the significance of an individual's spiritual beliefs and incorporates them into the therapeutic process. By integrating spirituality into therapy, individuals can explore their values, beliefs, and sense of purpose, and find meaning and guidance within their spiritual framework. This can foster a sense of wholeness and provide a solid foundation for personal growth. Enhanced Emotional and Mental Well-being: Spirituality can provide individuals with a source of strength, hope, and resilience during challenging times. By addressing spiritual concerns and incorporating spiritual practices, pastoral psychotherapy can help individuals find comfort, inner peace, and emotional healing. It can offer a framework for coping with stress, grief, and trauma, and promote emotional well-being. Increased Self-Awareness and Self-Reflection: Spiritual exploration often involves introspection, self-reflection, and self-discovery. Pastoral psychotherapy encourages individuals to delve into their inner world, examining their values, beliefs, and life choices. This process can lead to increased self-awareness, helping individuals gain insight into their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. It can also facilitate personal growth and transformation. Nurturing the Mind-Heart Connection: The mind-heart connection recognizes the interplay between cognitive processes and emotional experiences. …

metabolic typing
June 24, 2023

METABOLIC TYPING DIETUnlocking Optimal Health with Metabolic Typing: Understanding its Advantages and ApplicationsIntroductionMetabolic typing is an individualized approach to nutrition and health that recognizes the unique biochemical needs of each person. By understanding an individual's metabolic type, this approach aims to optimize health by providing tailored dietary recommendations and lifestyle strategies.Understanding Metabolic TypingMetabolic typing is based on the principle that individuals have distinct metabolic profiles, which influence how their bodies process and utilize nutrients. It recognizes that different people have varying nutritional requirements, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not yield optimal results. Metabolic typing helps identify an individual's metabolic type and provides personalized guidelines for diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.Advantages of Metabolic Typing:Personalized Nutrition: One of the key advantages of metabolic typing is the ability to tailor nutrition recommendations to an individual's unique metabolic needs. By understanding how different foods affect an individual's metabolism, metabolic typing helps identify the optimal macronutrient ratios (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) for each person. This personalized nutrition approach promotes better nutrient absorption, energy production, and overall metabolic balance.Improved Energy and Vitality: By aligning dietary choices with an individual's metabolic type, metabolic typing aims to enhance energy levels and vitality. When individuals consume foods that are appropriate for their metabolism, their bodies can efficiently convert nutrients into usable energy, leading to increased vitality, improved physical performance, and reduced feelings of fatigue.Weight Management and Body Composition: Metabolic typing takes into account the relationship between metabolism and body composition. By understanding an individual's metabolic type, recommendations can be …

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *