PRI: Human Movement Theory based on Anatomy
Postural Restoration addresses the natural imbalances of the human body based on Anatomy.
As many assume their body is symmetrical by observing their outside structures from having two arms, legs, feet, eyes, etc., most internal organs from neurological, respiratory, circulatory, muscular systems are not the same on the opposite sides of the body. The size of the organs, where they are placed and how they function, how muscles are used and the development of the nervous system all contribute to patterns of movement. Due to this complexity, it is difficult to understand how these patterns of movement influences one side of the body to the other.
Usually patterns develop during training or when the same movement is repeated. If the sequential actions of muscles, bones, joints, and breathing are not properly regulated, muscle function and structural alignment are negatively affected and leads to structural weakness and pain.
When we talk about posture, it is defined as the “the way in which your body is positioned when you are sitting or standing” (Merriam Webster) . A "good" posture is the correct alignment of the body parts supported by the right amount of muscle tension. When this alignment is off, it results in inappropriate muscle activity which leads to mechanically unproductive movement of the joints. Patterns are developed through frequent repetition of the behavior or act and when it is deeply embedded in an individual, it will become difficult to change. Our body is shaped by our actions and patterns determines use. When the body learns a poor pattern or experiences injury, movement of the injured area is prevented and other parts of the body has to compensate. As the pattern remains, the body does not know how to correct itself. The repetition of this pattern over time soon develops in to pain.
The body as a whole is a constantly working system. When one area has to cover for the other, other areas are negatively affected. Examining how all parts of the body interact develops great results and your body can move more efficiently.
When examining sports injuries, these may have developed due to the failure of addressing incorrect pattern movements that were learned before. In order to recover from this injury or make sure to prevent from reoccurring, it is important to address this pattern.