Spine & Chest

    Posture Evaluation

    Assessment of posture and postural defects in developmental age.

    Medically reviewed: April 2026·Dott. Daniele Priano

    Quick Answers

    Is my teenager's 'closed' posture a serious problem?
    In most cases the curved or 'closed' posture of adolescents is an attitude — a habitual posture that the teen is able to correct when prompted. It is heavily influenced by factors such as rapid growth, still-developing muscle tone, fatigue, study habits, and time spent sitting. Regular physical activity and some ergonomic advice are often enough. If, however, the curve does not correct actively or is associated with pain, further evaluation is warranted.
    When does posture suggest a real scoliosis?
    An asymmetric posture becomes suspicious for scoliosis when, on bending forward, a prominence on one side of the back (rib hump) is noted that persists in different positions. Other signs are uneven shoulders or hips that do not correct. In these cases an orthopaedic visit allows distinguishing a postural attitude from a true structural deviation of the spine. Learn more about Scoliosis
    Does postural exercise really help?
    Yes, when it is proposed in a personalized and targeted way. For a postural attitude, spinal mobility exercises, trunk muscle strengthening, and regular physical activity are very effective. For structural problems, exercise is part of a broader pathway. An initial evaluation helps identify the most useful program, avoiding generic exercises not suited to the individual child.

    Postural evaluation in pediatric and adolescent age serves to distinguish a simple postural attitude — that is, a habitual but flexible and modifiable posture — from a true structural alteration of the spine or limbs that requires a dedicated pathway.

    During the visit we observe the child standing still and in motion, evaluating shoulder, scapular, pelvic, and lower limb position, spinal flexibility, and any significant asymmetries. Very often what worries parents is an attitude linked to fatigue, developing muscle tone, daily habits (school backpack, study station, prolonged screen use), and is easily modified with practical advice and adequate physical activity.

    When more structural signals emerge — such as asymmetries that do not correct voluntarily, recurrent pain, or worsening during growth — the evaluation is deepened and a personalized pathway is set up, possibly in collaboration with a physiotherapist.

    Dott. Daniele Priano - Ortopedico Pediatrico

    🎒Beyond the Heavy Backpack

    Children's posture is influenced by many factors: rapid growth, hours sitting at school, electronic device use. Before worrying, an evaluation to rule out structural problems is useful. Often, practical advice and a targeted exercise program are enough to improve body awareness.

    When to seek evaluation

    • Hunched or asymmetric posture
    • Back pain in children/adolescents
    • Long screen time habits
    • Heavy backpack use concerns
    • Before or during growth spurt

    What is evaluated

    • Standing and sitting posture
    • Spine alignment on multiple planes
    • Shoulder and pelvis symmetry
    • Head position
    • Muscle flexibility evaluation

    Treatment options

    • Postural education
    • Specific strengthening and stretching exercises
    • Ergonomic advice
    • Treatment of any structural problems found

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is my teenager's 'closed' posture a serious problem?▼
    In most cases the curved or 'closed' posture of adolescents is an attitude — a habitual posture that the teen is able to correct when prompted. It is heavily influenced by factors such as rapid growth, still-developing muscle tone, fatigue, study habits, and time spent sitting. Regular physical activity and some ergonomic advice are often enough. If, however, the curve does not correct actively or is associated with pain, further evaluation is warranted.
    When does posture suggest a real scoliosis?▼
    An asymmetric posture becomes suspicious for scoliosis when, on bending forward, a prominence on one side of the back (rib hump) is noted that persists in different positions. Other signs are uneven shoulders or hips that do not correct. In these cases an orthopaedic visit allows distinguishing a postural attitude from a true structural deviation of the spine. Learn more about Scoliosis
    Does postural exercise really help?▼
    Yes, when it is proposed in a personalized and targeted way. For a postural attitude, spinal mobility exercises, trunk muscle strengthening, and regular physical activity are very effective. For structural problems, exercise is part of a broader pathway. An initial evaluation helps identify the most useful program, avoiding generic exercises not suited to the individual child.

    Important Notice: The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Each clinical case is unique: the appropriate treatment is determined during the specialist consultation, based on a thorough clinical examination and, where necessary, diagnostic imaging. For any doubts or concerns, please consult a specialist.

    Learn more

    Video

    Posture Evaluation

    Dott. Daniele Priano

    Are you concerned about your child's posture?

    For information or questions, contact me.

    PrenotaContatti

    Email: daniele.priano@ortopediaevolutiva.com

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