Reliability of an accelerometer-based system for quantifying multiregional spinal range of motion

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Spinal Kinematics
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Accurate measurement of spinal motion is crucial for diagnosing and managing various musculoskeletal conditions.
• Existing methods for assessing regional spinal motion may have limitations in precision and ease of use.
• Understanding the relative motion of different thoracolumbar (TL) segments is key to evaluating spinal health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability of a novel motion analysis device for quantifying regional spinal motion.
• To assess the device's ability to describe the relative motion between segments of the TL spine.
• To determine the accuracy and repeatability of the new device in measuring spinal range of motion (ROM).

Main Methods:

• Two protocols were used with 18 healthy participants to measure cervical and TL spinal ROM.
• Sensors were placed on the head, T1, and specific spinous processes (T1, T4, T8, T12, L3, S1) for TL measurements.
• Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM) were employed to assess reliability and error.

Main Results:

• High ICC values (0.88–0.99) indicated excellent repeatability for all spinal regions and movements.
• SEM values ranged from 0.4° to 5.2°, demonstrating a low degree of measurement error.
• Observed TL spinal ROM varied, with flexion/extension as low as 3° in the upper/mid-thoracic spine and up to 80° for cervical rotation.

Conclusions:

• The novel motion analysis device demonstrates high reliability for assessing regional spinal ROM.
• The methodology effectively captures the relative motions of different TL spine segments.
• This device offers a dependable tool for clinical and research applications involving spinal kinematics.