Posture Modification Effects Using Soft Materials Structures

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a textile component system mimicking anatomical structures that when added to a typical shapewear product will straighten and balance a person’s posture. The experimental system is referred to as the “Posture Modification System using Soft materials structures” or PMSS. Current posture modification garments fall into two categories: 1) health and rehabilitation garments focused on physical changes using rigid materials and 2) lingerie-type garments typically called shapewear that focus on achieving an ideal body using compression qualities of knit fabrics. This study explored the middle ground of designing a comfortable, wearable product that aligns posture using textile correction forces strategically placed in the garment. A biomimicry approach was used in designing the prototype using the inspiration of anatomical features of a woman’s torso to determine size and placement of textile components (PMSS) in a garment. A prototype was developed by incorporating the PMSS into a commercially available shapewear product. After a pilot test, the prototype was refined and a more comprehensive test was conducted. Twelve women participated in the study to determine effectiveness of the prototype including: 1) posture changes, 2) posture correction force, and 3) wearer acceptability. Participants were scanned three times; while wearing the prototype, wearing a typical shapewear product, and in their own underwear. Posture differences in wear conditions were analyzed. Posture correction forces of the textile materials were measured using standard fabric tests. Participants completed questionnaires on wearer acceptability. Results included: 1) body angle assessment indicated that wearing the prototype affected posture including more balanced shoulders, aligned lateral center of gravity, and straighter spine, 2) textile characteristics of the PMSS incorporated into a shapewear compression garment contribute to a more erect and balanced posture, and 3) participants were more satisfied with posture and body shape when wearing the prototype then when wearing the shapewear garment. This study indicates that the inherent properties of textiles (compression and tensile force from stretch) can be manipulated in a garment in various ways to modify posture.