A review of the effects of NASM and Sahrmann corrective exercise protocols on the improvement of kyphosis

Muscle imbalances can affect the body's natural alignment and cause a variety of postural abnormalities. One of the most common posture disorders is kyphosis (hunchback), which corrective exercises can greatly improve this condition. The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) proposed a 4-step rehabilitation exercise protocol that includes inhibition, lengthening, activation, and integration. In addition, Sahrmann attempted to introduce movement disorder syndromes to describe conditions that could be diagnosed and treated by physical therapists. Sahrmann believes that the origin of musculoskeletal disorders is an imbalance and muscle stiffness between agonist and antagonist muscle groups. Most studies use NASM exercises and Sahrmann modification protocols have been used less frequently in this field. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to review the effect of NASM and Sahrmann protocols on kyphosis using the studies conducted in this field.