Postural Syndrome (Lumbar)

Injuries > Lower Back > Postural Syndrome

What is postural syndrome?

Postural syndrome of the lumbar spine is a condition where pain is felt in the lower back, however, there is no significant damage or trauma to tissue. Patients with postural syndrome only experience an ache or pain during activities placing sustained stress on normal tissue.

The mechanism of pain onset in postural syndrome can be demonstrated by gently bending your index finger backwards until you feel a stretch (figure 1). At this point there is no tissue damage or pain, however, if you maintain this position for long enough, your finger will gradually become painful or ache. Postural syndrome in the lower back occurs in a similar fashion and typically occurs due to sitting or standing in poor positions for prolonged periods of time (figures 2 & 3).

When sitting slouched (figure 2), your lower back goes into its maximal bend (similar to touching your toes). This places considerable stretching force on the joints of your back and will gradually cause ache or pain if sustained for too long. Similarly, when standing in poor posture (figure 3) considerable stress is placed on the joints of your back. This will gradually cause ache or pain if maintained for too long.

Signs and symptoms of postural syndrome

Patients with postural syndrome typically have normal, pain-free movement. Symptoms are only experienced when poor posture is maintained for prolonged periods. This can occur in standing, sitting or lying. Pain is typically experienced as a dull ache in the lower back region and can occasionally be accompanied by symptoms in the upper back or neck. Usually the pain associated with with this condition will quickly ease upon moving or changing positions, thereby taking the strain off the affected structures.

Treatment for postural syndrome

Most patients with postural syndrome of the lower back experience no pain once their posture is corrected. This may be all that is needed to fix the problem. It is vital that posture is corrected during the provocative activity to prevent recurrence. Specific stretching and strengthening exercises can also help to improve posture and activity tolerance.

Achieving good posture

Good posture in any position is vital to ensure there is minimal stress on your spine and you remain pain free. As a general rule, good posture can be obtained by ensuring there is a straight line from your ear, to your shoulder, to your hip. Here are some recommendations on how to achieve good posture in various positions:

Sitting

When sitting, it is important to have an ergonomically correct chair which allows you to obtain optimal posture. Your bottom should be situated at the back of the chair and a lumbar support placed in the small of your back. Your shoulders should be back slightly and your chin should be tucked in slightly (figure 4). The height of the chair should ideally allow your hips and knees to be at right angles. Regular breaks from sitting are recommended with standing, walking or lying and should occur regularly enough to prevent pain onset.

Standing

In standing, good posture can be obtained by standing against a wall. In this position, your heels, buttocks, shoulders and head should be in contact with the wall, and your eyes and nose facing forward. Your lower back should have a slight arch (figure 5).

Lying

In lying, good posture can be obtained by lying on your back with a contoured pillow supporting your neck. Your knees may be bent or supported by a pillow for comfort. If lying on your side, it is important to lie as straight as possible (figure 6) and to avoid curling up into the fetal position (figure 7). A pillow may be placed between your knees for comfort. Lying on your stomach is generally not recommended as this places considerable stress on your neck.

Physiotherapy for postural syndrome

Physiotherapy treatment for postural syndrome can significantly help to reduce symptoms and prevent recurrence. Physiotherapy may comprise:

soft tissue massage
electrotherapy (e.g. ultrasound)
postural taping
the use of a posture support / brace
mobilization
the use of a lumbar roll for sitting
dry needling
exercises to improve strength, posture or flexibility
education
activity modification advice
biomechanical correction
clinical Pilates
ergonomic advice

Physiotherapy products for postural syndrome

Some of the most commonly recommended products by physiotherapists to hasten healing and speed recovery in patients with this condition include:

To purchase a physiotherapy product for postural syndrome, click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.

Find a Physio for postural syndrome

Find a physiotherapist in your local area who can treat postural syndrome.

Lower Back Exercises

View Lower Back Flexibility Exercises.
View Lower Back Strengthening Exercises.
View Basic Pilates Exercises designed to improve your posture and core stability.

More Information

View more Posture Advice & Information.

View detailed information about Posture Supports / Braces.

View information on improving your Ergonomic Desk & Computer Setup.

Return to the top of Postural Syndrome.