High frequency of McKenzie’s postural syndrome in young population of non‐care seeking individuals

Abstract

Objectives: The role of postural loads as a risk factor for back pain and musculoskeletal symptoms is unclear. McKenzie proposed in his classification of mechanical syndromes a postural syndrome, in which people only develop symptoms from sustained loading, which is relieved by a change in position and has no effect on movement or function. Because of the low level disability with postural syndrome, it was suggested that few seek healthcare for this problem.

Methods: This study used a two‐stage process first to give a questionnaire to 100 students and staff from a university to determine who appeared to have postural syndrome, and then applied a physical examination to those who consented.

Results: One hundred and thirty‐eight were approached, of who 100 completed questionnaires and 66% appeared to have postural syndrome. Of the 66 who appeared to have postural syndrome, 37 consented to have a physical examination. Of the 37, 31 met the criteria for postural syndrome, with postural syndrome being significantly associated with pain on sustained loading and pain abolition on posture correction. Most postural syndrome was in the lumbar spine and associated with sitting, but other sites and causes were also noted.

Discussion: This study lends credibility to McKenzie’s postural syndrome, but also suggests this as a possible precursor for future more disabling or painful problems. Postural syndrome may not feature in those seeking professional healthcare, but is clearly highly prevalent in a young population.

Keywords:

• Posture
• Backache
• McKenzie syndromes
• Prevalence
• Sustained postures