Which technique is MOST appropriate for improving low postural tone?

• A. Slow regular rocking while sitting on a treatment bolster
• B. Continuous pressure to the skin overlying the back muscles
• C. Low-frequency vibration to the back muscles
• D. Joint approximation applied through the shoulders to the trunk

Answer: (D)

Low postural tone is best improved by providing proprioceptive input that enhances proximal stability of the trunk. Joint approximation through the shoulders to the trunk delivers compressive input across the shoulder girdle into the spine, which increases somatosensory feedback to the trunk muscles. This helps them activate more effectively and hold the body upright with better alignment. The resulting co-contraction around the trunk supports steadier posture and a firmer base for movement.

Other techniques offer different benefits but don’t target trunk stability as directly. Gentle rocking can be soothing and promote general body awareness, but it doesn’t specifically drive the proximal muscles needed for postural control. Continuous pressure on the skin over the back muscles and low-frequency vibration may influence arousal or superficial activation, but they don’t provide the same decisive proprioceptive cue for improving sustained postural tone.