Therapy of poor posture in adolescents: Sensorimotor training increases the effectiveness of strength training to reduce increased anterior pelvic tilt ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Abstract: Background: Increased anterior pelvic tilt is one important contributor to poor posture in children and adolescents and caused by muscular imbalance. This study aims at identifying the extent to which a sensorimotor training reduces anterior pelvic tilt more effectively than pure strength and stretch training alone. Methods: 54 male adolescents (age 13-17) with an increased pelvic tilt angle >14° were matched to three groups (strength training STR, strength + sensorimotor training STR + SENS, control CON). Maximum isometric torques for knee flexion (HA), trunk flexion (RA), and trunk extension, and pelvic tilt were measured before and after a 12 week physical therapy schedule. Two-way mixed ANOVA were calculated. Results: For STR and STR + SENS the relative torque of HA and RA increased significantly (p < 0.05) between pre-and post-test. Significant improvement of the pelvic tilt angle was identified in both training groups, with STR + SENS exhibiting a significantly larger degree of improvement. Conclusions: Sensorimotor exercises improve the effectiveness of physical fitness training to reduce anterior pelvic tilt and should therefore supplement existing therapeutic programs