Posture & Alignment — How Physiotherapy Can Help You Stand Taller and Move Better

Good posture isn’t just about appearance—it’s a foundation for healthy movement, joint

function, and pain-free living. Unfortunately, in today’s screen-based lifestyle, forward head

posture, rounded shoulders, and spinal imbalances have become increasingly common. These

issues contribute to chronic muscle fatigue, joint strain, and even respiratory dysfunction (Koseki

et al., 2019).

At our Calgary physiotherapy clinic on MacLeod Trail, we specialize in identifying and

correcting postural dysfunction using a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach that

enhances movement, comfort, and quality of life.

Signs You May Have Poor Posture or Misalignment

• Forward head carriage and rounded shoulders

• Excessive lumbar arch (hyperlordosis) or flat lower back

• Pelvic tilt (anterior or posterior)

• Uneven shoulder or hip height

• Recurrent neck, mid-back, or shoulder pain

• Fatigue or discomfort after standing or sitting for long periods

• Muscle tension and restricted range of motion

Common Causes of Postural Dysfunction

• Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting

• Improper workstation ergonomics

• Muscle weakness, imbalances, or asymmetry

• Prior injury or poor movement compensation patterns

• Congenital skeletal asymmetry or scoliosis

• Stress and muscle guarding

How Physiotherapy Improves Posture & Alignment

1. Comprehensive Postural & Movement Assessment

We examine your static and dynamic posture—standing, walking, sitting, lifting—to identify

contributing mechanical or muscular factors.

2. Manual Therapy for Soft Tissue & Joint Restrictions

Techniques such as myofascial release, joint mobilization, and spinal manipulation reduce

tension, improve spinal alignment, and restore tissue mobility (Shamsi et al., 2017).

3. Corrective Strengthening

We target key postural stabilizers:

• Deep cervical flexors to combat forward head posture

• Scapular stabilizers like lower traps and rhomboids to support upright shoulder

• positioning

• Core and gluteal muscles for pelvic and lumbar support

4. Targeted Stretching for Tight Muscles

We lengthen commonly shortened areas such as:

• Pectoralis major/minor

• Upper trapezius and levator scapulae

• Hip flexors (iliopsoas)

• Thoracic spine and hamstrings

5. Postural Retraining and Biofeedback

Using cues, mirrors, and functional retraining, we help reset your nervous system to promote

optimal posture during daily activities like typing, lifting, and driving.

6. Ergonomic & Lifestyle Coaching

We provide tailored recommendations for desk setup, sleep positions, and movement

habits—empowering you to maintain improvements beyond the clinic.

Research-Backed Benefits of Postural Correction

• Reduces neck and back pain (Singla & Veqar, 2017)

• Improves respiratory mechanics (Koseki et al., 2019)

• Enhances balance and proprioception

• Boosts self-confidence and energy levels

• Prevents recurrence of overuse injuries

Why Choose Our Calgary Posture Physio Team?

Our clinic at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW proudly supports patients in Haysboro, Kingsland,

Acadia, Fairview, and across South Calgary. We combine manual therapy, movement science,

and personalized education to deliver long-term results for posture and movement.

Book a Postural Assessment Today

Whether you’re recovering from injury or simply feeling the effects of desk work, posture-

focused physiotherapy can transform how you move and feel. Let’s align your health from the

ground up.

References

 Koseki T, et al. (2019). Influence of forward head posture on thoracic shape and

respiratory function. J Phys Ther Sci.

 Shamsi M, et al. (2017). The effect of spinal mobilization on posture and pain. Manual

Therapy.

 Singla D, Veqar Z. (2017). Association between forward head, rounded shoulders, and

neck pain: A systematic review. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil.