A postural analysis chart is most effective when used in conjunction with a
plumb line, which is a straight line that suspends a weight or “Bob” on its end.
This system has been used since the time of the Egyptians to ensure that
structures were being built perfectly upright. When the weight is made of lead (plumbum
in Latin), it is referred to as a lead weight or Plumb Bob.
The benefits of using a plumb line during a postural
analysis, will:
- ensure the posture chart is hanging straight;
- guarantee the client is viewed from a 90-degree angle;
- determine placement of the client’s feet prior to taking postural
analysis photos; and
- supply a visual reference of the midsagittal and coronal planes in the
posture photos. This shows clients where their body is being held in space
by the muscles, why the muscles hurt, and how you can help.
Hang the plumb line from the ceiling, approximately 3 feet in front of your
posture analysis chart. This distance will allow clients of all sizes to stand
between the posture chart and the plumb line without touching either one. The
Plumb Bob should be suspended from the ceiling and hang approximately ¼-inch
from the floor. To get the plumb line out of the way and conserve space when the
posture chart is not in use, simply hook it over one of the pins holding the
chart on the wall. If you are using the door version of the chart, hook the
plumb line behind the hinges.
The use of a construction-grade plumb line to suspend the Plumb Bob will
prevent a lot of problems—just make sure the line is securely attached to the
ceiling. A professional Plumb Bob kit comes with ceiling anchors and a
construction-grade line attached to a professional Plumb Bob.
Positioning
Have the client stand between the postural analysis chart and the plumb line.
Be sure his/her body is not touching the plumb line or the posture chart. It is
important for the client’s feet to be placed in the identical position from one
photo to another to guarantee consistency. Use tape, a template or a piece of
Plexiglas on the floor to mark the client’s position.
Anterior and Posterior Views
There are a few things to remember when taking anterior and posterior posture
analysis photos. First, place the medial (inside) aspects of the client’s heels
shoulder width apart and equally spaced from the plumb line (Photo 2). This
position allows the plumb line to indicate the midsagittal plane of the body in
your photos. Then you can also use postural analysis photos to show the client
that his/her body is to the right or left of the midsagittal plane (Photo 1).
Second, position the back or posterior aspect of the client’s heels the same
distance away from the posture chart to avoid creating the illusion of a twist,
torque or rotation in the body.
By positioning the feet using the medial and posterior aspects of the heels,
the client is free to laterally rotate the lower extremities, thereby revealing
more postural distortions.
Lateral Views
For lateral views, position the client so that the plumb line is immediately
anterior to the lateral malleolus. (Photo 5) This position allows the plumb line
to represent the coronal plane of the body. Ask the client to place his/her hair
behind the ears to expose the external auditory meatus: an anatomical landmark
used as a reference point to determine the position of the head on the coronal
plane.
Camera and Photos
The camera you use does not have to be elaborate. Most massage therapists can
simply use a cell phone camera. If using a cell phone camera, however, make sure
to implement the necessary safeguards to protect your client’s privacy, such as
setting security codes or downloading the photos to a secure computer for
storage and retrieval.
Once you have taken the photos, keep it simple. The easiest way to review
your findings with the client is on the screen of the camera. If you wish, you
can download and print the photos later for the client’s file.
Anterior and posterior view photos can reveal a number of issues, including a
high shoulder (Photo 3) or high hip, the space between the torso and the upper
limb, the positions of the hands, an externally rotated lower limb, a fallen
arch, or if the head and/or torso are held to the right or left of centerline,
to name just a few. (Photo 1)
Lateral view photos make it easy to point out a forward head (Photo 6),
rounded shoulders, and a slumped abdominal posture, as well as the angle of the
innominate bones and the position of the knees; they are also helpful in
identifying a twist or rotational pattern. (Photo 4)
The
plumb line and setup kit for use with the Postural Grid Charts
includes the following:
- Professional plumb bob
- 15 foot line for
professional plumb bob
- Wall pins to secure
chart
- Ceiling anchor and hook
for drywall ceilings
- Ceiling anchor and hook
for suspended ceilings
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