Evidence-based postural assessment for use in therapy and rehabilitation

Clinical assessment of spinal dysfunction involves the evaluation of back shape or symmetry. Variations in symmetry, shape or balance are generally believed (in conjunction with other symptoms) to be indicators or possible causes of dysfunction. With the onset of clinical governance, evidence-based practice has become paramount in all aspects of health. Numerous non-invasive objective methods varying in sophistication, cost and portability have been developed to measure and document back shape and posture. The purpose of this current study was to assess the reliability of a new low-cost system on healthy young subjects. Intrarater reliability, using Pearson's correlation and intraclass correlation coefficients of landmark points on 50 'normal' subjects using a portable digital system, is reported. The results indicate that the system is reliable (P<0.001) and provides data suitable for evidence-based practice in clinical rehabilitation.