Posture Therapy in Singapore
Maintaining a good posture is more than just standing and sitting straight. It can prevent various health problems such as joint pains and headaches, as well as avoid the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries.
Posture refers to the attitude your body assumes when supporting a level of muscular activity (movement) or a result of various muscles working together to establish stability (immobile). Our specialists in Singapore have worked with many patients to correct their posture through physical therapy. However, we advise performing a posture analysis to accurately determine the appropriate physio treatment.
What Does Posture Analysis Entail?
Posture analysis or Postural Ergonomics Assessment enables you to understand the overall alignment of your body and how effectively your body can hold itself when stationary or moving. The analysis is done to sieve out any abnormalities in the way one moves or functions. Those who require physiotherapy post surgery may also undergo an assessment to ensure the health of their posture after an operation.
There are various methods to assess one’s posture. They include:
- Static observation (the body when not in motion) – these include an anterior (front), posterior (back) and lateral (sides) analysis, as well as an assessment against a posture grid
- Dynamic observation (the body in motion) – these can include, but are not limited to, movements in the neck, shoulder, spine and hip
- Specific tests for a particular region of the body
- Resisted movements
How Can Posture Affect Your Health & Body?
Bad posture can be a cause or a result of various physical issues such as:
- Inflexible joints
- Neck, shoulder and backaches
- Increased spinal pressure resulting in more injuries and degeneration
- Breathing difficulties
- Indigestion
How Can You Correct Your Posture?
One of the first steps to correct your posture is to be aware of it. A posture analysis allows you to have a comprehensive understanding of your posture and the various underlying concerns that require attention. Your physiotherapist will then advise you on the best treatment. These may include various physiotherapy interventions such as:
- Joint mobilisation/manipulation
- Postural retraining through exercise
Speak to our therapists in Singapore to find out more about your posture health. We provide a tailored approach when it comes to therapy. Book an appointment for a posture analysis today!
Postural Assessment
In STOTTS Pilates, the normal curve of the spine describes a normal curve convex forward in the neck (cervical region) and lower back (lumbar region), and convex backward in the upper back (thoracic region). An imaginary plumb line from the floor to the head, is often used to assess for an ideal posture
Observing the plumb line from the side of the body, the line should be slightly anterior to the ankle (lateral malleolus), moving up slightly anteriorly to the midline of the knee, passing approximately through the hip joint (greater trochanter) of the thigh bone (femur), and passing midway through the trunk reaching through the shoulder joint and bodies of the neck (cervical bone), ending at the crown of the head through ear lobe.
The posture is also assessed anteriorly and posteriorly to note for any inward or outward rotation of the feet and lower extremities, rotation or hiking of the pelvis, winging of the scapula and tilting or rotation of the head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does posture therapy work?
Yes — in many people. Targeted posture programs (postural retraining + strengthening exercises) reduce pain, improve neck/back posture and increase range of motion compared with doing nothing. Results are best when exercises are tailored, practiced regularly, and combined with activity and ergonomic changes. (Good evidence reviews and clinical trials support exercise-based posture correction.)
What to expect:Steady improvement over weeks to months, not overnight fixes. Posture devices can help short-term awareness but won’t replace exercises.
What is postural therapy?
Postural therapy is a physiotherapist-led approach that first assesses your standing and movement patterns, then uses a mix of exercises, manual techniques and education to restore a more balanced alignment. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening weak muscles, stretching tight ones, and improving daily habits—such as sitting, screen use, and lifting—so your body moves with less strain.
Is posture correction painful?
You may feel soreness or muscle fatigue (like after starting any exercise) as under-used muscles are asked to work more. That mild discomfort is normal; sharp or worsening pain is not. A good therapist will progress exercises slowly and adjust them to keep you safe and comfortable. If pain is severe, stop and get reviewed.
What is the most common postural problem?
Forward head posture (also called anterior head carriage or “tech neck”) is very common—especially with lots of phone or computer usage. It often comes with rounded shoulders which leads to neck pain, headaches and shoulder tightness.
What is the best sleeping position for posture?
Side-sleeping or back-sleeping with simple supports is usually best:
- Back:A pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck and a small pillow under the knees.
- Side:Keep head aligned with the spine and place a pillow between the knees to keep hips level.
Avoid stomach sleeping (it twists the neck). Good pillow height and mattress support matter as much as position.
Can physiotherapy help with posture?
Yes — physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to improve posture long term. Physiotherapists assess movement faults, give targeted exercises, correct muscle imbalances, educate ergonomic changes, and progress you safely so new posture becomes automatic. For most people, physiotherapy combined with daily practice is more effective than passive fixes.
What are the 5 types of posture?
Practitioners commonly describe these postural categories (labels vary slightly between sources):
- Neutral / healthy posture – balanced spine curves and aligned joints.
- Forward head (anterior head carriage) – head juts forward over the shoulders.
- Kyphotic (rounded upper back) – exaggerated upper-back curve; often rounded shoulders.
- Lordotic (excess lower back curve) – increased lumbar curve with anterior pelvic tilt.
- Flat-back / Sway-back – reduced normal spinal curves or pelvis shifted, causing a flattened or “swaying” appearance.
Each posture pattern comes with typical weak and tight muscle groups, along with specific corrective exercises—hence, individual assessment is essential.
