Postural Assessment (Side View)

Posture

Lateral postural scan emphasizing sagittal alignment.

Purpose

Screen for sagittal plane postural deviations.

Execution

1. Stand relaxed with feet together
2. View the client from the lateral side
3. Check ear-shoulder-hip-knee-ankle alignment
4. Note forward head, kyphosis, or pelvic tilt
5. Document deviations

Key Observations

• Ear over shoulder, shoulder over hip
• Thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis
• Pelvic tilt position

Views

• lateral

Protocol

1. Observe from: lateral.
2. Standardize start position and instructions.
3. Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

Kendall FP et al. Muscles: Testing and Function with Posture and Pain. Sagittal postural alignment (lateral view).