Postural assessment with the moiré technique in dialyzed patients

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Orthopedics
• Physiotherapy

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with reduced mobility and potential musculoskeletal harm.
• Understanding body posture changes in CKD patients is crucial for preventing disease progression and complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate spatial arrangement changes of the spine and torso in dialysis patients.
• To highlight postural abnormalities in CKD patients undergoing dialysis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized moiré projection technique and a Computer-Aided System for Posture Assessment.
• Analyzed 82 angular and linear parameters of the spine, scapulae, and pelvis in frontal and sagittal planes.
• Included 54 dialysis patients (22 female, 32 male).

Main Results:

• Significant sexual dimorphism was observed across all spine segments.
• Asymmetry in scapulae and pelvis alignment was evident in both male and female patients.
• Identified specific postural abnormalities in the study cohort.

Conclusions:

• Dialysis patients exhibit distinct spinal and torso postural changes, including sexual dimorphism and asymmetry.
• These findings can inform the development of tailored exercise regimens for dialysis patients.
• Targeted physical stimulation may help mitigate further musculoskeletal degradation in CKD patients.