Limits of normality and symmetry in standing back shape and posture

female ones as expected. However no significant differences were found between key distances on the left and right sides of the back. In females, the only significant differences between the left and right sides of the back were found in the distance between the acromium and the inferior scapula. The right side was significantly smaller than the left side. Further the distance between the inferior angle of the scapula and the apical thoracic vertebra on the right side was significantly longer than the left side. The left shoulder in females was also significantly higher then the right shoulder. No statistically significant differences at the inferior angle of scapula, iliac crests or PSIS were found in females. Discussion The results of this study suggest that young asymptomatic subjects are very symmetrical with males being more symmetrical than females. In females asymmetries exist predominantly around the shoulder. Conclusions Ranges for normality of back shape and posture suggest that overall young asymptomatic males and females are very symmetrical, with the exception of shoulder values in young females. The normative ranges provided should help clinicians decide when postural retraining exercises/ conservative treatment is warranted as well as aid the documentation of treatment effectiveness.