TITLE:
Refining the Reference Values of Diers 4D Formetric System and Introducing a Qualitative Spine Profile Based on Percentile Ranking
AUTHORS:
Luc Peeters, Grégoire Lason, Geert Byttebier, Frank Comhaire
KEYWORDS:
Diers Formetric System, Spine, Reference Values, Kyphosis, Lordosis, Sagittal Imbalance, Body Mass Index, Back Pain, Osteopathy, Quantitative Spine Profile
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Medical Imaging,
Vol.5 No.3,
September
21,
2015
ABSTRACT: Background: In order to detect possible abnormalities of the spine posture of an individual patient, it is mandatory to dispose of adequate reference values based on measurements in a normal, symptom-free population. The Diers formetricsystem allows for non-invasive and accurate assessment of the vertebral column based on the registration of external aspect of the back surface using the Moiré principle. Objective: To create a qualitative spine profile based on the percentile ranking of measurements obtained by the Diers formetric system taking into account possible confounding factors. Materials and Methods: Statistical analysis of formetric recordings in 216 symptom-free volunteers. Results: Maximal kyphotic angle, maximal scoliotic angle, sagittal imbalance, flèche cervicale, and pelvic inclination are significantly influenced by gender and by body mass index (BMI). A synoptic chart was created presenting the percentile ranking taking into account gender and BMI. The percentile ranking was summarized in both a table with colour code and depicted in a histogram of the individual’s Qualitative Spine Profile (QSP). Clinical Significance: Percentile ranking and the Quantitative Spine Profile taking into account gender and BMI should permit a more precise and reliable assessment of possible posture deviations related to the patient’s complaints, and may assist the therapist in selecting the best mode of treatment.