Evaluation of the Effects of Corrective Exercises on the Posture of Ballet Dancers Using the Photogrammetric Measurement Technique

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the effects of individualized corrective exercises on posture based on postural assessments conducted by a physiotherapist. Materials and Methods: The study included 47 ballet students (39 females, 8 males) aged 11–19 years. Participants underwent one photogrammetric assessment at the beginning of the study and another after completing an 8-week personalized corrective exercise program. Servidor de Apontadores Portugueses Online (SAPO) postural assessment software was used for postural evaluation. Results: In the anterior view, when pre- and post-intervention measurements were compared to reference values, statistically significant improvements were observed in the horizontal alignment of the head, acromions, and anterior superior iliac spines, tibial tuberosities (p<0.05). Significant improvement was noted in the horizontal asymmetry of the scapula relative to the T3 vertebra. Lateral views and vertical alignment of the head improved significantly. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have assessed the effects of corrective exercises on posture using SAPO software. Conclusion: This study quantitatively showed that individualized corrective exercise programs by physio therapists improve posture in ballet students, potentially reducing injury rates and enhancing physical performance. It lays the groundwork for future research on the efficacy of corrective exercises.

Keywords

• Posture
• Corrective exercise
• Ballet
• Physiotherapist
• Injury prevention
• Physical performance

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