What are rounded shoulders or RSP?

Rounded shoulders, also known as Rounded Shoulder Posture (RSP) or “mom posture,” refer to a common postural problem where the resting position of the shoulders leans forward from the body’s ideal alignment. This condition is characterized by acromion protraction, shoulder protraction, downward rotation, and anterior tilt of the shoulders. It often results from poor posture habits, such as prolonged sitting, using digital devices, and carrying heavy objects, which cause muscle imbalances and uneven weight distribution in the upper body. Symptoms of RSP include upper back, neck, and shoulder stiffness, and if left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, reduced lung capacity, and worsened psychosocial health.