Measurement of Three-Dimensional Back Shape of Normal Adults Using a Novel Three-Dimensional Imaging Mobile Surface...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Medical Imaging
• Human Factors Engineering

Background:

• Postural and spinal deformities are significant contributors to musculoskeletal disorders.
• Early identification through posture screening can prevent deformity progression and aid correction.
• Accurate 3D human modeling is crucial for effective postural assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of a mobile structured light sensor for creating 3D human models for posture screening.
• To assess the accuracy of the 3D models in capturing postural variables and angular displacements.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an iPad-based 3D mobile scanning tool (Structure Sensor™) to capture back and whole-body shapes of 16 healthy young males.
• Processed 3D models using open-source software (Netfabb Basic™).
• Five trained raters performed three trials over two separate occasions to measure nine postural variables, calculating intra- and inter-rater reliability using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs).

Main Results:

• Good to excellent intra-rater reliability (ICCs 0.70-0.98) and good to moderate inter-rater reliability were found for 78% (7 out of 9) of postural variables.
• Moderate to low inter- and intra-rater reliability (ICCs 0.26-0.79) were observed for lateral pelvic tilt and right frontal knee angle.

Conclusions:

• The mobile structured light sensor system demonstrates good to excellent reliability for most postural measurements, supporting its use in posture screening.
• Specific measurements, such as lateral pelvic tilt and knee angle, require further refinement for improved reliability in 3D posture assessment.