Global Postural Re-education (GPR): what it is and what it is for
Global Postural Re-education (GPR, known in Portuguese as RPG) is a physiotherapy method developed by Philippe Souchard in France. It treats posture through sustained, active stretching positions in which several muscle groups work at the same time. It is based on the idea that the body works in muscle chains and that pain in one place may originate somewhere else.
What it is used for
posture-related low back and neck pain;
changes in spinal curvature, such as hyperkyphosis or mild scoliosis;
recurring pain in people who sit for many hours;
stiffness and loss of mobility.
How a session works
The physiotherapist starts by assessing posture and movement. In each session, the patient holds one or two positions for several minutes, with controlled breathing and hands-on corrections from the physiotherapist. Sessions are one-to-one and the plan evolves as posture improves.
What the evidence says
Studies show GPR benefits chronic low back and neck pain, similar to other well-guided exercise programmes. In other words, what matters most is targeted, consistent exercise. That is why, at Clínica Myalgia, postural correction is integrated into a plan that also includes strengthening and movement training.
Postural correction at Clínica Myalgia
Posture-based physiotherapy: building body awareness and reprogramming movement, in 60-minute one-to-one sessions.
Movement analysis: measuring posture and movement rather than just assessing them by eye, and tracking progress.
Pain medicine consultation: when pain is intense, radiating or not improving, to understand the cause before starting.
GPR, Pilates or exercise-based physiotherapy: what's the difference?
All three work on posture and movement control, but in different ways. GPR uses positions held for several minutes, with hands-on corrections and a focus on muscle chains. Pilates works on trunk control with dynamic exercises, often in groups. Physiotherapy with therapeutic exercise starts from a diagnosis and chooses exercises based on the cause of the pain and each person's goals, whether returning to sport, to work or simply walking without pain.
In practice, you don't have to choose just one. The most effective plan is the one you can stick to regularly and that is adjusted as pain decreases and strength increases.
Posture at work: what to do
Screen at eye level and an arm's length away.
Feet flat on the floor and hips slightly above the knees.
Short breaks every 30 to 45 minutes to change position and move your spine.
Alternate between sitting and standing, when possible.
There is no single correct posture: the body doesn't tolerate staying in any position for a long time. Changing position often is as important as the position itself.
When posture isn't the cause of pain
Not all back or neck pain comes from posture. Pain that wakes you at night, travels down the arms or legs with tingling or loss of strength, or appears after a fall should be assessed by a doctor before starting any exercise programme. Find out more about low back pain and neck pain.
Frequently asked questions about GPR
How many GPR sessions are needed?
It depends on the problem and how long you've had it. Many people notice a difference after a few sessions, but maintaining the gains requires continuing the exercises at home.
Is GPR useful for scoliosis?
It can help improve posture, mobility and pain in mild scoliosis. More pronounced scoliosis, especially in growing teenagers, requires specialist medical assessment.
Does GPR replace strength training?
No. Posture also depends on strength and muscle control, so we combine postural correction with strengthening.
Dr. Miguel Reis e Silva
Doctor at Sport Lisboa e Benfica
Medical Director and Founder of Clínica Myalgia
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