Investigation of the acute effect of physio-logic® posture training on balance, sagittal alignment of the spine and back muscles

This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of Physio-logic® postüre training on postüral awareness, balance, sagital spinal alignment, and the mechanical properties of back muscles in university students. The study was conducted using a prospective pretest–post-test design, with follow-up assessments performed one week after the training. A total of 60 university students aged between 18 and 29 years participated in the study. Postüral characteristics of the participants were assessed using the New York Postüre Rating Chart (NYPD), and those who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded. Postüral awareness and habitual postüres were evaluated with the Postüral Habits and Awareness Scale. Sagital spinal alignment (thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles) was measured using a Baseline® bubble inclinometer, while the mechanical properties of the back muscles (trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and erector spinae) were analyzed with the MyotonPRO device. Balance parameters (static and dynamic) were assessed under both eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions using the Corebalance system. All assessments were performed before and after a 20–40-minute Physio-logic® postüre training session. Descriptive statistics and paired t-test/Wilcoxon tests were used for data analysis. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in thoracic kyphosis angle (p < 0.001) and a significant increase in lumbar lordosis angle (p = 0.004) between pre- and posttraining measurements. Additionally, a significant reduction in the stiffness of the trapezius and latissimus dorsi muscles was observed (p < 0.05). Regarding balance assessments, a statistically significant improvement was found only in the static balance parameter under eyes-open conditions following the training (p = 0.037). However, no statistically significant changes were observed in postüral awareness, dynamic balance, or eyes-closed static balance (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that Physio-logic® postüre training may have short-term positive effects on physiological spinal curvatures, balance parameters, and muscle mechanics. However, to evaluate broader and more sustained effects, long-term interventions consisting of multiple sessions may be necessary. Keywords: Postüre training, postüral awareness, sagital spinal alignment, muscle stiffness, static balance.