Postural Assessment and Education
The skeleton is viewed as a series of building blocks piled one on top of the other, starting with the bones of the feet and ending with skull. A postural assessment begins with an observation of an individual's spinal alignment in relaxed standing. The assessment can progress to observation of spinal alignment in sitting, during activities of daily living and sports. Alteration in joint position, a change in muscle function either due to spasm or weakness, tightness or laxity of ligaments, and shortening or lengthening of connective tissue are all considered when doing a postural assessment.

Correction of postures that vary from normal, non-stressful positions is directed toward restoring maximal motion to all joints, symmetry of length and strength to all muscles and ligaments, and symmetry of connective tissue tensions relieving restriction and pain throughout the body. This restoration is attempted through education, such as bringing awareness to a poking chin posture. The prescription of specific exercises, like lower trapezius strengthening are essential for attaining proper postural alignment.