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Instrumental measures of spinal function: is it worth? A state-of-the art from a clinical perspective
R Don1, P Capodaglio, V Cimolin
1Orthopedic Rehabilitation Unit and Clinical Lab for Gait Analysis and Posture, Ospedale San Giuseppe, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Piancavallo, Verbania, Italy.
European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
|April 19, 2012
Summary
Surface topography offers a defined role in monitoring spine deformities and alignment. Further research is needed to establish reliable parameters for adolescent scoliosis, pain, and occupational/forensic spine assessments.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Clinical Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Trunk posture and motion assessment is crucial in clinical practice.
- Non-invasive instrumental techniques aim to improve upon manual and radiological methods.
- The clinical utility of these measures is hindered by undefined roles and parameter significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review spine surface measurement techniques from a technical perspective.
- To evaluate current and potential clinical applications of these techniques.
- To determine the clinical value of parameters derived from surface measurements.
Main Methods:
- Review of instrumental non-invasive spine surface measurement techniques.
- Technical assessment of device features and accessibility.
- Evaluation of parameter validity, reliability, and clinical value.
Main Results:
- Surface topography is well-defined for monitoring sagittal plane deformities, adult scoliosis, and spino-pelvic alignment.
- Further studies are required for adolescent scoliosis, back/neck pain, occupational load measurements, and forensic impairment assessments.
Conclusions:
- Surface topography has a clear role in specific spinal condition follow-ups.
- Additional research is necessary to define key parameters for broader clinical, occupational, and forensic applications.
