2021, Volume 17, Issue 1
Selected aspects of using surface topography and scoliometer in screening for scoliotic postural asymmetry in girls
Piotr Kurzeja1, Katarzyna Ogrodzka-Ciechanowicz2, Karina Rożek3, Zuzana Hudakova4
1Institute of Health Sciences, Podhale State College of Applied Sciences in Nowy Targ, Nowy Targ, Poland
2Institute of Clinical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Motor Rehabilitation, University of Physical Education, Krakow, Poland
3Institute of Social Sciences and Public Health, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Krakow, Poland
4Faculty of Health, Catholic University, Ružomberok | College of Polytechnics in Jihlava | SNP Central Military Hospital, Faculty Hospital, Ružomberok, Slovak Republic
Author for correspondence: Katarzyna Ogrodzka-Ciechanowicz; Institute of Clinical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Motor Rehabilitation, University of Physical Education, Krakow, Poland; email: Katarzyna.Ogrodzka@awf.krakow.pl
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Abstract
Background & Study Aim: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a multi-factor, three-dimensional spine and trunk deformation. This abnormal posture is a major medical and social problem. The “gold standard” in evaluation of scoliosis is radiological examination but frequent exposition to ionizing radiation may be harmful for a young body. There are other non-invasive methods used to diagnose scoliosis. Analysis of Moiré topograms of the back enables verification of body posture asymmetries and disorders, or method used to assess changes in the transverse plane is measurement of the angle of trunk rotation with a scoliometer. The aim of the study was the knowledge about possible changes in sagittal and frontal plane of the spine and about usefulness of surface topography and scoliometer in screening for scoliotic postural asymmetry.
Material & Methods: The sample consisted of 49 girls aged 9-13. The observational cross-sectional study involved: an interview, a anthropometrics test (body weight and height), a photogrammetrical assessment of posture using Moiré topography, a measurement of angle of trunk rotation using Bunnell scoliometer, and clinical tests: Thomas, Thomayer and Dega.
Results: The results show positive correlation between asymmetry of trunk rotation and Moiré Scoliosis Angle indicators (rho = 0.819; p<0.0001) and angles describing changes in the sagittal plane. However, no correlation was recorded between asymmetry of trunk rotation and Moiré Scoliosis Angle values and Thomayer and Thomas tests.
Conclusions: Scoliometer examination and Moiré topography can be an important factor towards the improved effectiveness of screening for scoliotic postural asymmetry and monitoring the effects of therapy.
Key words: early diagnosis, idiopathic scoliosis, Moiré topography, posture, early diagnosis, spine
