An exercise intervention is successful in decreasing forward head and rounded shoulder postures in elite swimmers, say authors of a study published in the April issue (Vol 44 Issue 5) of the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The study supports the theoretical basis for clinical rehabilitation of posture and the shoulder, the authors add.
This randomized clinical trial included 28 National Collegiate Athletic Association division I varsity swimmers. Two testing sessions were conducted before and after an 8-week time period. Posture, strength, and shoulder pain and function were assessed. Forward head angle and translation and strength were measured. The intervention group then participated in an 8-week exercise training program to correct posture. The procedures were then repeated in the post-test.
Decreased forward head angle and forward shoulder translation resulted from the exercise program.
APTA member Charles A. Thigpen, PT, coauthored the study.
ECRC Physical Therapy can help you with an exercise program to help improve your posture. Aquatic Therapy is also available.
