Final answer:
Shortened or lengthened muscles may contribute to poor postural alignment by causing imbalances and misalignment in the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shortened or lengthened muscles may contribute to poor postural alignment. When the muscles are shortened, they pull on the bones and joints, causing imbalances and misalignment in the body. For example, tight chest muscles can lead to rounded shoulders and a forward head posture. On the other hand, lengthened muscles that are weak and not properly activated can result in poor posture as well. For instance, weak core muscles can lead to a swayback posture.