Protecting Body Shape: Why the Sterno-Spinal Line Matters
Protecting Body Shape: Why the Sterno-Spinal Line Matters
At JansenTherapy, our mission is to protect and improve the health and comfort of people with severe movement impairments through comprehensive 24-hour postural care. One of the key tools we use to do this is a simple yet powerful concept called the sterno-spinal line.
This blog explains:
- What the sterno-spinal line is
- Why it’s so important for protecting body shape
- How we use Goldsmith Indices of Body Symmetry — a validated and reliable measurement system — to monitor alignment and guide best practice
What Is the Sterno-Spinal Line?
The sterno-spinal line is a vertical reference line that runs from the sternum (breastbone) down through the spine. In a symmetrical body posture, this line is straight and central, dividing the body evenly left and right.
For individuals with significant motor impairments — including cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, acquired brain injuries or neurodegenerative conditions — maintaining symmetry around this line is essential. Why?
Because asymmetry over time leads to distortion of the body, often permanently.
Why Body Shape Matters
Many people with limited mobility spend long hours in the same positions — in bed, in a wheelchair, or in reclined seating. If those positions are asymmetrical, gravity acts on the body unevenly. Over time, this causes changes in:
- Spinal alignment (e.g., scoliosis)
- Pelvic position (e.g., obliquity or rotation)
- Rib cage shape (e.g., collapse or flaring)
- Hip joints (e.g., windswept posture or subluxation)
- Joint contractures
These distortions can lead to:
- Pain
- Respiratory compromise
- Digestive issues
- Loss of function
- Reduced quality of life
That’s why JansenTherapy focuses on early detection, prevention, and correction of asymmetry — starting with the sterno-spinal line.
Measuring Symmetry: Goldsmith Indices of Body Symmetry
At Jansen Therapy, we don’t just rely on visual assessments. We use a validated, reliable clinical tool called the Goldsmith Indices of Body Symmetry (GIoBS) to objectively measure body shape and postural alignment.
This tool:
Measures symmetry across the head, trunk, pelvis, and lower limbs
Detects early signs of asymmetry or rotational postures
Tracks changes in body shape over time
Provides evidence-based insight to guide interventions
These indices are simple, non-invasive, and can be repeated consistently to ensure the person’s body shape is being protected at every stage of care.
Watch my video explaining how the chests distorts under the force of gravity
Integrating Goldsmith Indices Into 24-Hour Postural Care
Postural care isn’t just about wheelchairs or sleeping positions — it’s about what happens 24 hours a day, including:
- Supported lying at night
- Functional sitting during the day
- Repositioning throughout routines
- Safe manual handling and transfers
- Carer education and empowerment
We use the Goldsmith Indices alongside clinical reasoning to:
✅ Design and adjust supportive equipment
✅ Identify risk of body shape distortion early
✅ Document clinical progress
✅Train families and carers in positioning techniques that maintain or improve alignment
Real Impact for Families and Individuals
Families often tell us they want to avoid unnecessary surgery, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. By using the sterno-spinal line as a central guide — and monitoring it with the Goldsmith Indices — we offer families peace of mind that their loved one’s body shape is being protected.
With JansenTherapy, you get:
- Individualised assessment
- Objective measurement
- Evidence-informed practice
- Ongoing support and collaboration
Ready to Learn More?
If you support someone who lies, sits, or stands in a posture that might not be symmetrical, or if you’ve noticed early signs of body shape changes, we’re here to help.
Contact Jansen Therapy today via this link or email us on bas@jansentherapy.com.au to learn more about our body symmetry assessments and 24-hour postural care support services.
Let’s work together to protect body shape, reduce pain, and improve lives — 24 hour s a day.
