Analysing Anthropometric Measurement and Body Shape Data to Incorporate Body Asymmetry, due to Scoliosis, into Improved Clothing Sizing Systems

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to improve current clothing sizing systems of female adolescents with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). AIS is a complex, three-dimensional spinal deformity, appearing particularly among children aged 8–14 years, especially in girls (nine girls for one boy), resulting in body asymmetry that could affect a female adolescent’s appearance, compromising her health and ability to function. The study took place in Greece where today scoliosis affects at least 2.9% of the population. Measuring procedures were used that were specifically adapted for body asymmetry and that complied with the appropriate code of ethics. Using front/back and left/right arc measurements, both right and left body halves of 75 females aged 16–22 years diagnosed with AIS were measured in order to register their different body shapes and classify them into different scoliotic groups. Analysis of the measurements related to the trunk documented the asymmetry arising from the different types and degrees of spinal curvature that provided a three-dimensional classification of scoliotic deformities, according to the magnitude and type of scoliosis. As a result of this classification, different size charts were created and mathematically evaluated to correspond to different scoliotic groups.