Limits of normality and symmetry in standing back shape and posture

Introduction Abnormalities of posture are a common cause of pain and disability. The range of effect from discomfort to incapacitating disability is related both to the severity as well as to the persistence of the faults (Kendall, 1993). On the whole, objective measurement systems for postural evaluation are not widely accessible in the UK especially on the National Health Service (Warren et al, 2005). Within physiotherapy practice one of the most common methods of assessing posture is by visual observation. It is well known however that unaided visual assessment is prone to error and lacks objectivity. Accurate recording of back shape and posture, if scientifically based on reliable measures can be used to credibly validate intervention or efficacy of treatment. However uncertainly still remains as to the limits of normality relating to back shape values in young males and females. Knowledge of these values would significantly benefit clinicians as it would enable them to decide when postural retraining exercises/ conservative treatment is warranted. The objective of this study was to identify the limits of normality and symmetry of back shape in a group of asymptomatic young females and males.