Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long until I feel results?
This varies from person to person. It is important to remember that dysfunctions develop over time and it will take time to correct your unique dysfunctions. It is common for your symptoms to subside temporarily after completing your menu, only to come back later. Muscles need time to be re-educated but as you become more functional, the time of relief should get longer and longer until permanently eliminated.
Will my posture exercises make me sore?
Your path to success may include ups and downs. Occasionally, the exercises will cause some delayed muscle soreness as you begin to integrate new muscle patterns. You may even feel less coordinated as your body changes and adapts to its new position.
Do I really need to perform my exercises everyday?
Yes! Your central nervous system has developed poor movement habits to compensate for your dysfunctions. In order to change that, you must stimulate new muscle patterns on a daily basis. Think of it as daily 'flossing' for your muscular health!
Can I do just one or two of my favorite exercises and expect to get results?
No. Although you may see some benefit from picking and choosing exercises, the fullest benefit will be achieved from doing your full menu as directed, in order, every day.
How should I sit or stand?
As you progress with your Posture routines over the weeks and months, you will find that you naturally stand, sit and walk more comfortably.
Short Explanation: Posture alignment therapy reprograms muscle memory, thus leaving you naturally moving better throughout your day.
Longer Explanation: Your posture (the position of your body in space) is determined by the length and tension of the muscles throughout your entire body.
The length and tension of the muscles throughout your body (aka your posture) is controlled by your central nervous system (CNS) which consists of your brain and spinal cord.
By doing the exercises from your PAT menu, you re-train your CNS and you re-train muscle memory throughout your entire body.
This re-training process leaves you naturally functioning better in your day to day life.
In Summary: Your daily menu practice will re-train your body and your brain to automatically behave differently, so there is nothing you have to constantly think about or be aware of throughout the day.
Does insurance cover posture alignment therapy?
No. PAT is non-medical. However, check with your employer to see if your Flex Spending Account can be used to pay for the therapy.
Is Posture Therapy only effective for those in pain?
Whether you are an elite athlete, young or old, in pain or wanting to stay out of pain or just wanting to improve your posture for aesthetic reasons, PAT has helped someone like you.
Should I continue to see my massage therapist, chiropractor, acupuncturist etc?
Yes, PAT is a great compliment to other manual therapies and exercise routines.
How is PAT different from just taking a yoga or Pilates class?
Your menu of exercises is designed specifically for your postural dysfunctions and compensations. You will work one on one with your therapist to reassess your posture throughout the process rather than in a generalized group setting.
Should I continue my current activities?
All activity and movement is positive when the body is correctly aligned. Straighten, then strengthen. It may be necessary to avoid certain activities initially until the body returns to a neutral alignment and is better able to handle the demands.
Do I need expensive equipment?
No. Your therapy will be specific to you and may require the use of some items already in your house. Your therapist will advise you on what is appropriate.
PAT equipment can be purchased at www.crookedhuman.com