Understanding Slouched Posture: Causes, Types, and How We Can Help in Glen Waverley

Do you or your child appear slouched, hunched, or rounded in the upper back? You're not alone. At Posture Blueprint Osteopathy, located conveniently inside The Glen Shopping Centre in Glen Waverley, we help people of all ages understand and improve their posture with a safe, evidence-based, and personalised approach.

We're currently offering a Free Posture Assessment for kids, teens, and adults. Book online at www.postureblueprint.com – it's the first step to understanding your posture and what can be done about it.

A man stands with upright posture, engaging with a computer in a modern office setting, exemplifying the opposite of slouched or slumped posture.

What is Slouched or Slumped Posture?

Slouched or slumped posture typically refers to excessive rounding of the upper back (called thoracic hyperkyphosis) and/or forward head posture. This posture can develop from long hours sitting, using devices, carrying heavy bags, or simply growing up with poor habits.

A person engaging in exercises to manage kyphosis, highlighting the importance of accurate assessment in treating hyperkyphosis.

There are two main types of slouched posture:

1. Flexible Slouched Posture

This means the spine can return to a more upright position when you try to sit or stand tall. It’s usually caused by muscle weakness, poor habits, or fatigue. The good news is that with consistent postural strengthening exercises, this type can often be significantly improved.

2. Inflexible or Rigid Slouched Posture

This is where the upper spine (thoracic region) is stiff and cannot straighten easily, even when trying. This may be due to structural changes in the spine and may include a condition called Scheuermann’s Disease.

What is Scheuermann’s Disease?

Scheuermann’s Disease is a condition that causes rigid, structural curvature of the thoracic spine during growth, most commonly seen in teenage boys. It results in a stiff, rounded posture that doesn’t easily correct.

To confirm this condition, X-rays are required. We can refer for imaging if needed as part of our thorough assessment.

Key features may include:

• Hunched upper back that is hard to straighten

• Tight chest and hamstrings

• Aching or fatigue in the back

• Poor posture that’s especially noticeable during growth spurts

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Not all slouched postures are the same. Some improve with strengthening alone, others need a combined approach involving:

• Stretching tight areas

• Spinal mobility work

• Postural retraining and correction

• Specialised spinal orthotics (e.g. Denneroll devices) for selected patients

That’s why we never use a one-size-fits-all program. Your spine is unique, and so your treatment and exercise plan should be too.

Our Osteopathic Approach

At Posture Blueprint, we use an evidence-based approach combining:

• Osteopathic techniques to improve spinal mobility and reduce muscle tension

• Postural education and training

• Dry needling (if appropriate)

• Home exercise programs customised to your posture and spine type

• Spinal remodelling techniques to gently reduce stiffness and encourage better extension through the thoracic spine

We are proud to have additional qualifications including:

• Postgraduate Certificate in Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation

• SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis) Levels 1 & 2 – ISICO

• ScoliBalance Level 1 Certified

We also work closely with referring GPs and can provide detailed feedback where appropriate.

Who Can Benefit?

• School-aged children and teens, especially during growth spurts

• Teenage boys, where early diagnosis of Scheuermann’s disease is important

• Adults with chronic hyperkyphosis

• Desk workers or anyone with a rounded upper back and forward head posture

We assess posture, spinal movement, flexibility, and muscle strength to build a program that suits your needs.

Improving posture benefits the entire family, from young children to adults, promoting health and well-being for all generations.

Serving Glen Waverley and Surrounding Suburbs

Our clinic is located at The Glen Shopping Centre and we proudly see patients from:

• Glen Waverley

• Mount Waverley

• Vermont South

• Burwood East

• Wheelers Hill

• Blackburn

We are located at The Glen Shopping Center, inside The Glen Superclinic, next to Chemist Warehouse.

Take Your First Step – Book Your Free Posture Assessment

Don’t wait for pain or stiffness to become a daily problem. Early assessment leads to better results.

🎁 Free 20-Minute Posture Assessment (valued at $67) 📍 Located at The Glen Shopping Centre, Glen Waverley 🌐 Book online at www.postureblueprint.com 📞 Call (03) 8290 0228

Terms apply: One free posture analysis per person. Not redeemable for cash or other services. Additional consultations charged at the standard rate. Offer subject to change – please see our website for up-to-date details.

This service is offered by a registered osteopath. All assessments and treatment recommendations are provided in accordance with AHPRA guidelines.

Discover the benefits of good posture and enhance your well-being. Book your free posture analysis today and enjoy the confidence of a healthy stance.