Postural asymmetry in female athletes engaged in pole acrobatics: a visual screening study

This study aimed to quantitatively assess postural asymmetry in experienced female pole athletes using a visual screening system and to correlate these findings with previously obtained neuromuscular and strength data from the same cohort, providing an integrated analysis. The study involved 20 female athletes (age 23–40 years, with over 18 months of experience) who underwent postural assessment using the automated APECS (AI Posture Evaluation and Correction System). Key metrics, including the Horizontal Deviation Index (HDI), Frontal Alignment Index (FAI), and various trunk symmetry indices (Posterior Trunk Symmetry Index, POTSI; Asymmetry Trunk Symmetry Index, ATSI; General Trunk Index, GTI), were calculated. These postural data were then analyzed for correlations with prior electromyography and dynamometry measurements using Spearman's correlation. While athletes demonstrated excellent postural control in the horizontal plane, the study identified significant asymmetries in the frontal plane and overall trunk symmetry. These deviations were strongly correlated with specific patterns of muscle imbalance, notably heightened activity in the contralateral m. sternocleidomastoideus and altered activity in the m. latissimus dorsi. This linkage suggests the asymmetries are not arbitrary but represent functional compensatory mechanisms developed in response to the sport's unilateral demands. The observed asymmetries are functional adaptations to the sport's unilateral demands, driven by right-hand dominance. While essential for performance, these adaptations create muscular imbalances that heighten long-term injury risk. Therefore, a comprehensive management strategy is recommended, featuring balanced bilateral training, targeted corrective exercises, and regular postural monitoring to support athlete health and longevity. Keywords: muscle imbalance, physical rehabilitation, compensatory mechanisms, injury prevention, sports biomechanics.