Association between Rounded Shoulder Posture and Pulmonary Capacity among Undergraduate Doctor of Physical Therapy Students

Abstract

Background: vital capacity and its relationship with posture has previously been studied. Variances in
posture has an effect on the inspiratory and expiratory pressures. Spirometry is the preferred choice for
measurement of vital capacities. Chronic deviations in posture could have long lasting effects on vital
capacity. Physical therapists are prone to suffering long term musculoskeletal disorders, thus affirming
the need to have screening protocols in place to prevent onset of such disorders.
Methods: two hundred undergraduate physical therapy students were included in the study. Rounded
shoulder posture was assessed using vernier calipers (in supine, distance between tip of shoulder and
table was measured). Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volumes were assed using spirometry.
Conclusions: significant differences were obtained in readings of forced vital capacity and forced
expiratory volume between those with rounded shoulders and those without (p-value= 0.000 and 0.003
respectively).Postural changes effect vital capacities. Undergraduate students should be educated
regarding proper postures, in order to prevent long term effects.