Reliability of Axial-Thoracolumbar Spine Rotation Range Measurements

Abstract

Background Although numerous measurement methods exist for thoracolumbar spine rotation, achieving an accurate measurement of axial-thoracolumbar spine rotation is difficult because it is usually measured in the open kinematic chain. Purpose Therefore, the purpose of our study was to investigate the reliability of a new method for measuring axial-thoracolumbar spine rotation in the closed kinematic chain. Study design Intra-tester repeated measures Methods 14 healthy participants performed axial-thoracolumbar rotation. An electromagnetic tracking system was used to measure the angle of axial-thoracolumbar rotation in the sternum’s jugular notch and xiphoid process. Results The test-retest reliability of the axial-thoracolumbar rotation angle per the sensor on the jugular notch was 0.83, and the measurement from the sensor on the xiphoid process was 0.84. Conclusions The measurement of the axial-thoracolumbar rotation angle in the supine position showed excellent reliability.