Postural Imbalance is an imbalance of the body from muscular deficits and possibly structural deficits.  It is a general term used to describe improper leveling or function of the body that can affect performance in everyday life as well as athletics and activity.  Typically, you will see an imbalance in the neck, shoulders, low back, pelvis or hips.  These imbalances can be caused by muscular dysfunction – improper activation of muscles during activity or even underutilization of muscles from lack of activity.  They can be caused by injuries previously incurred from the person – broken bones, injured joints, injured muscles, and disc herniations.  Sometimes they can be due to disease which causes excess stress on the body to function.  And lastly you may see this from a structural deficit, whether it be scoliosis(improper curvature of the spine), or anatomical deficits to extremities(arms/legs).

Whatever the cause of postural imbalance, this issue can cause many different problems for the person.  They may experience pain, decrease in strength, decrease in ROM, atrophy to muscles and more.

The best course of action for this issue is to seek professional help.  A professional will be able to evaluate, diagnose, and build a treatment plan specific to the individual and the issue.  A proper treatment plan for this issue should include manual therapy to help decrease muscular, tendon, and ligament irritations which will help decrease pain.  Joint mobilization/manipulation will help keep the joints moving properly and decrease tension and stiffness.  Stability and strength programming will help improve support and balance to the muscles for decreased risk of irritation.  And finally, build a self-care program for the individual on how to manage this issue on their own.