Author(s)

Luc Peeters¹, Grégoire Lason¹, Geert Byttebier², Frank Comhaire^3*

¹International Academy of Osteopathy, Gent, Belgium.
²Bioconstat Ltd., Rietorchisstraat, 8, B 9041, Gent, Belgium.
³Brakelmeersstraat, 18, B 9830 Sint Martens-Latem, Belgium.

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 formetric system 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.

Diers Formetric System, Spine, Reference Values, Kyphosis, Lordosis, Sagittal Imbalance, Body Mass Index, Back Pain, Osteopathy, Quantitative Spine Profile

Peeters, L. , Lason, G. , Byttebier, G. and Comhaire, F. (2015) Refining the Reference Values of Diers 4D Formetric System and Introducing a Qualitative Spine Profile Based on Percentile Ranking. Open Journal of Medical Imaging, 5, 150-158. doi: 10.4236/ojmi.2015.53019.