“Posture is a reflection of the “position” of many systems that are regulated, determined and created through limited functional patterns. These patterns reflect our ability and inability to breathe, rotate, and rest, symmetrically with the left and right hemispheres of our axial structure.” -Ron Hruska Jr., MPA, PT
Despite popular belief, the human body is not symmetrical. In fact, our bodies are full of asymmetries (as they should be). The respiratory, neurological, vision, muscular, and circulatory systems are not the same on the right side of the body as they are on the left. They each have different functions, positions, responsibilities and demands on them. This system asymmetry is a good thing. The human body is balanced through the integration of system imbalances. For example, the torso is balanced with your heart on the left and your liver on the right. Extremity dominance is balanced through reciprocity; i.e. right arm moves with the left leg and vice versa.
When we get in trouble is when we continually go to the “path of least resistance.” For the vast majority of the population, this “path” is a right unilateral stance. When in this position, we place limitations on our body’s ability to move and function correctly. Body segments held out of alignment for extended periods will result in adaptive shortening or lengthening and further result in postural deterioration. Malalignment will cause inefficient interaction of muscle strength, joint proprioception in the foot and ankle, alignment, and postural tone. Failure to organize dynamic alignment and synergistic action of the musculoskeletal system will result in compensatory learning.
How do we get “stuck” in our path of least resistance? Perceived stress from anywhere in the body or outside of the body. Example: While doing a squat, the body realizes the weight is too heavy and goes into lumbar hyperextension to protect itself. It could also mean that a constant emotional stressor could cause improper breathing patterns and lead to a right stance pattern in an individual. Being able to get out of that pattern, or stay out of it, is determined by how all the systems interact with each other.
Sources: Bill Hartman, Mike Robertson, Eric Oetter, and Kane Sivesind
