Postural conditions we assess and manage
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It can be idiopathic (the most common form, with no clearly identified cause), congenital (present from birth) or neuromuscular (associated with conditions affecting the nervous system or muscles). Curves range from mild — requiring monitoring and conservative management — to severe, which may require bracing or surgical intervention. In appropriate cases, chiropractic care can help manage the pain and functional limitations associated with scoliosis, support spinal mobility, and slow postural deterioration.
Hyperkyphosis (Rounded Upper Back)
Hyperkyphosis is an excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine — commonly known as a "hunchback" posture. It can be postural in origin (driven by habit and muscle imbalance) or structural (where the vertebrae themselves have changed shape). It is increasingly common among desk workers and older adults. Associated presentations include upper back pain, neck pain, shoulder restriction and, in more advanced cases, reduced respiratory function due to restriction of the chest wall. Early assessment means management can start sooner.
Hyperlordosis (Exaggerated Lower Back Curve)
Hyperlordosis describes an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, causing the lower back to arch more than is ideal. It is often the product of tight hip flexors, weak core and gluteal muscles, and the postural habits that prolonged sitting reinforces. Left unaddressed, hyperlordosis contributes to chronic lower back pain, hip problems, and places increased load on the facet joints and posterior spinal structures. Restoring muscle balance and correcting the underlying mechanics is central to treatment.
Forward Head Posture
Forward head posture occurs when the head shifts forward of the ideal line of gravity running through the ear, shoulder, hip and ankle. The physics are unforgiving: for every 2.5cm the head translates forward, the effective load on the cervical spine increases significantly — placing enormous cumulative stress on the neck muscles, joints and discs. It is one of the most common postural findings in modern clinical practice, driven by device use, desk work and prolonged sitting. Associated symptoms include neck pain, cervicogenic headaches, upper back tightness and reduced cervical range of motion.
Pelvic Tilt and Pelvic Imbalance
The pelvis is the structural foundation of the spine — when it sits level, the vertebral column above it has the best chance of maintaining proper alignment. Anterior pelvic tilt (the front of the pelvis drops forward), posterior pelvic tilt (it tilts back) or lateral pelvic tilt (one side sits higher than the other) each create compensatory patterns throughout the spine, hips and lower limbs. Pelvic imbalance is a common contributing factor to lower back pain, hip pain, sacroiliac joint pain and even knee pain. It is routinely identified as part of Dr Poulton's postural assessment.
Flat Back Syndrome
Flat back syndrome describes a reduction or loss of the normal lumbar lordosis, causing the lower back to appear flat rather than displaying its natural inward curve. It disrupts the spine's shock-absorbing capacity and shifts the centre of gravity forward, making it difficult to stand upright comfortably for extended periods. Patients often report fatigue, chronic lower back pain and leg pain when standing or walking. It may develop after spinal surgery, as a result of degenerative disc disease, or secondary to prolonged poor postural habits.
Tech Neck / Screen Posture
Modern device use has created a generation of patients presenting with a characteristic cluster of postural changes — rounded shoulders, forward head posture, protracted scapulae and a flattened or reversed cervical curve. The hours spent looking down at smartphones or forward at screens accumulates into significant postural load over time. Tech neck is no longer exclusively an adult presentation: it is being identified in children and teenagers, and the earlier the patterns are identified and addressed, the better the long-term outcome.
How Jacinta approaches postural assessment
A postural assessment at Momentum Chiropractic is systematic and thorough. Jacinta uses a multi-component approach to build an accurate picture of how your body is holding itself and where the key drivers of dysfunction lie:
- Standing postural analysis — assessed from the front, side and back to identify asymmetries, malalignments and compensatory patterns
- Movement and gait assessment — how the body moves dynamically, not just how it holds still, reveals a great deal about functional patterns and compensation
- Muscle length testing — identifying tight hip flexors, hamstrings and pectorals that are driving postural change
- Muscle strength testing — assessing the core, gluteal muscles and deep neck flexors that are responsible for holding proper posture
- Spinal range of motion — evaluating mobility through each region of the spine to identify restrictions and asymmetries
- X-ray referral if indicated — if scoliosis is suspected or structural changes are clinically relevant, Jacinta will refer for X-ray imaging
Treatment is then built around the findings and tailored to the individual. It typically involves a combination of:
- Chiropractic adjustments — to restore normal joint mechanics and mobility throughout the spine
- Soft tissue therapy — myofascial release and trigger point work to address tight muscles that are perpetuating poor posture
- Clinical Pilates — targeted core strengthening and postural re-education to build the active stability required to hold improved posture
- Home exercise programme — specific exercises prescribed between appointments to reinforce the changes being made in the clinic
Postural assessment FAQ
Can chiropractic fix my posture?
Chiropractic care can play a role in postural correction, but it's rarely a single-treatment fix. Dr Poulton uses a combination of spinal adjustments to restore joint mobility, soft tissue work to release tight muscles, clinical Pilates to strengthen postural muscles, and home exercise programmes. The degree of improvement depends on the nature and duration of the postural problem — structural changes that have developed over many years take longer to address than more recent, postural-habit-driven presentations.
How do I know if I have scoliosis?
Scoliosis is often detected during a postural assessment. Signs can include one shoulder sitting higher than the other, uneven hips, a rib prominence when bending forward, or a visible curve in the spine. Mild scoliosis is often asymptomatic and may not have been noticed. Diagnosis is confirmed on X-ray. If Dr Poulton suspects scoliosis during your assessment, she will refer you for appropriate imaging.
Is postural correction relevant for children?
Yes — and the earlier the better. The habits that drive poor posture (prolonged screen time, heavy schoolbags, sedentary lifestyles) are being established in childhood and adolescence. Scoliosis screening is particularly important in this age group, as the condition progresses most rapidly during growth spurts. Dr Poulton assesses patients of all ages and can advise on age-appropriate interventions.
How long does postural improvement take?
This depends on the type and severity of the postural problem and how consistently you engage with the prescribed exercises and lifestyle modifications. Postural pain can often be reduced meaningfully within a few weeks. Visible postural changes — retraining the muscles and restoring proper curves — typically take several months of consistent work. Dr Poulton will set realistic expectations at your initial assessment and monitor progress over time.
Do I need a referral for a postural assessment?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with Momentum Chiropractic by calling 0400 611 001 or using the online contact form. If you have a Medicare EPC care plan from your GP, that is also welcome and can be used toward your consultations.