Turning Posture Assessments into Everyday Real-World Solutions

Dr. Tom McGuire

Back in June, I shared how we used the PostureScreen® app to assess dozens and dozens of young adults (athletes and non-athletes), and demonstrated that a simple, reproducible posture protocol can work "on the road" (i.e., outside of a biomechanics lab!)

But collecting posture data is just the first step. The bigger question is: What do we do with those results?

What the Patterns Tell Us

My dissertation showed that both groups had unique postural “fingerprints,” subtle differences that can have clinical implications. Recognizing these differences matters because it points to tailored interventions rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Why This Matters for Health and Performance

Posture isn’t just about how someone looks standing still, it influences how the body moves, performs, and ages. For example, small misalignments can lead to overuse injuries in athletes or chronic pain in office workers. On the other hand, proper alignment allows muscles and joints to work more efficiently, which translates to better strength, speed, and endurance. Correcting postural deviations reduces stress on the spine and joints, lowering the risk of long-term issues like arthritis or disc problems.

So, how do we move from data collection to actual change?

My ongoing research is now moving into this intervention phase, testing whether targeted corrective strategies actually reduce deviations over time. The ultimate goal is to develop a repeatable, field-friendly model that not only assesses posture but actively improves it - and one that speaks directly to long-term athlete health.

About the Author

Tom McGuire is Assistant Professor of Health Science at Salem Community College, New Jersey. His academic and clinical work centers around sport-specific posture, corrective exercise, and athlete health.