Posture & Health

Science has shown that good posture allows the body to function and perform optimally. More precisely, a study published in the American Journal of Pain Management (1994, 4: 36-39) revealed that posture affects and moderates every physiologic function from breathing to hormonal production. Spinal pain, headache, mood, blood pressure, pulse and lung capacity are among the functions most easily influenced by posture.

Biomechanics is the study of the body's mechanical functions and the scientific basis on which postural alignment is based. Bad posture implies misalignment and deviations which are caused by muscle imbalances or asymmetries. Some muscles are stronger on one side, weaker on the other, and therefore the body compensates causing pressures on the spine, nerves and internal organs and muscle tension.

A number of causes may be at the origin of muscle imbalances; our day to day habits and movements at work, sports, past and present injuries, obesity and other.

Biotonix system assesses and pin points these postural deviations, and in function of these prescribes a corrective exercise program. This tailored program is designed to correct muscular imbalances, decrease compression forces (cervical and lumbar), and maximize the center of gravity. The aim is to strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight muscles. The Company is also developing novel orthotics, to be designed in function of the Biotonix postural analysis results.

University Centers

Throughout its history, Biotonix has worked in close collaboration with renowned University centers and scientists in North America. Some collaborations lead to the development of some key components the Biotonix posture and biomechanical assessment system. The Company’s goal is to ensure that its technology and solutions align with the latest scientific advancements, meet the highest quality standards, and moreover offer the best efficacy.

McGill University and Université de Montréal

Biotonix System’s Anatomical Markers

One of the key components to the success of any system involving imaging markers is the ability for the user (or examiner) to place accurately and in a consistent manner the anatomical markers.

A collaborative study with McGill University and Université de Montréal demonstrated that the Biotonix user had a high capacity in reproducing with precision the marker’s locations by palpation. The accuracy of the angles and distances measures provided by the system was also compared to a highly sensitive and well-established kinematic measurement system, the Vicon. Results of this study indicated the high reliability and accuracy between the Biotonix and Vicon examiners.

An abstract of this study was presented at the IV World Congress of Biomechanics conference in Calgary (in collaboration with the American and Canadian Biomechanics Societies), and an article based on the study was submitted to the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for publication.

Dalhousie University, School of Physical Therapy

Biotonix Exercise and Stretching Programs

Exercises and stretching regimens are key components in treating lower back pain and correction postural deviations. Biotonix exercise and stretching programs were evaluated and refined by Dr. Cheryl Hubley-Kozey of the School of Physical Therapy of Dalhousie University.

An extensive review and meta analysis of the effectiveness of exercise treatments for lower back pain was done with Dr. Hubley-Kozey. Conclusions were presented in an abstract at the 4th Interdisciplinary World Congress on Low Back and Pelvic Pain in Montreal, and a paper summarizing these findings was submitted to the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy.

Biotonix is also very active in the academic world and its systems are used as research, teaching or diagnostic tools in 11 University centres across North America.