Reliability of scoliosis measurements from moire topography

Abstract EN

Spinal deformity cannot always be detected in Physical Therapy by inspection and physical examination only.

A full length standing roentgenogram taken many times during the sensitive age period would result in too much radiation exposure to the children.

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of a technique for quantifying spinal curvature based on the analysis of moire topographs.

Twenty-six subject, 17 boys and 9 girls ranging in age from 13 to I6V2 years with a mean age of 14'A years.

Each subject was moire topographed.

All photographs were scaled to a factor 1:3 at the level of the grid screen for topographic assessment by two skilled therapists.

Data were analysed using analysis of variance and pearson correlation coefficient (r).

Reliability of each measure was assessed.

The pearson correlation coefficient (r) between the two therapists was 0.89 (p < .05).

The data suggest that the technique described for quantifying spinal curvature is reliable.

It was proposed that the utilization of this measure in combination with physical examination may permit documentation bf the efficiency of physical means used in the treatment of scoliosis.

Further plans for improving the instrumentation and for clinical application are in progress.