Postural deviation patterns, trunk mobility restriction and spinal musculoskeletal dysfunctions in chronic gastritis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Orthopedics
• Physiotherapy

Background:

• Chronic gastritis affects a significant portion of the adult population.
• Gastrointestinal disorders are increasingly recognized for their potential systemic effects.
• The relationship between visceral health and musculoskeletal function, particularly posture and spinal mobility, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare posture, trunk mobility, and spinal musculoskeletal dysfunctions between adults with chronic gastritis and healthy controls.
• To investigate potential viscerosomatic reflex mechanisms linking chronic gastritis to biomechanical alterations.
• To provide evidence supporting integrative approaches for managing chronic gastritis.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational study involving 88 participants (41 with chronic gastritis, 47 healthy controls).
• Posture and trunk mobility assessed using computerized photogrammetry.
• Spinal musculoskeletal dysfunctions evaluated using the Tenderness, Asymmetry, Restriction of Motion, and Tissue Texture change (TART) tool.
• Statistical analyses included Cohen's d effect sizes, Phi coefficient, Cramér's V, and Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Main Results:

• The gastritis group showed significantly higher left trunk deviation and right trunk rotation compared to controls.
• Reduced trunk flexion and left rotation were observed in the gastritis group.
• Participants with chronic gastritis exhibited greater restrictions in passive mobility, asymmetry, pain, and muscle tension in cervical and thoracic regions (C3, C4, T8, T9).

Conclusions:

• Chronic gastritis is associated with compensatory postural adaptations and reduced trunk mobility.
• The study supports the hypothesis that visceral disturbances can lead to biomechanical imbalances via viscerosomatic reflexes.
• Findings underscore the importance of considering musculoskeletal health in the comprehensive management of chronic gastritis.