Balance Control and Plantar Pressure Distribution in Hyperkyphotic Adolescent and Young Adults

To assess differences in static/dynamic balance and plantar pressure distribution (PPD) in hyperkyphotic adolescents and young adults based on sagittal spinopelvic alignment changes.

Twelve hyperkyphotic patients and 12 normal subjects were included in the study group and control group, respectively. Lateral spine X-rays were used to evaluate spinopelvic parameters, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), and sagittal vertical axis offsets. A Balance Master device was used to evaluate the balance and postural control of subjects, and an EMED pedobarography device was used to record dynamic PPDs. Radiologic parameters, center of pressure (COP) velocity, COP alignment, and PPDs were compared in both groups to determine significance.

A positive correlation was found between kyphosis and lordosis (r = 0.573, p=0.03) in the study group. No significant difference was found in COP alignment and mean sway velocity between the two groups (p > 0.05). Statistically significant differences were found in the endpoint excursion values in the forward direction between groups in terms of dynamic balance measurement (p=0.09). The dynamic pedobarographic measurements did not reveal any intergroup differences (p < 0.05).

Delayed balance control may be observed during forward reach in hyperkyphotic adolescents and young adults. Compensatory LL may be effective to maintain normal gravity projections, static balance control, and PPDs as a response to thoracic hyperkyphosis.