MAPS Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
MAPS: Measuring Alignment and Posture in the Spine
IRAS ID
230019
Contact name
Erin Hannink
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Oxford
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 12 months, 0 days
Research summary
Many congenital or degenerative disease processes can lead to hunched or forward flexed posture in a person. This altered alignment in the back and neck can cause pain and decreased physical function. Currently there are several methods of measuring the alignment of the spine, but each method has its inherent disadvantages. Invasive methods, such as x-ray, are costly, time-consuming and exposes the patient to radiation. Non-invasive methods, such as flexicurve and inclinometers, have moderate validity and limited robustness in their measurement data. This research aims to test the validity and reliability of a 3D postural topography method to measure spinal alignment. Participants will be eligible if they are 18 years or older and undergoing a standing lateral x-ray for a spinal condition. For the measurement, participants will be asked to stand with their back exposed in order for an image to be captured. Additionally, they will have their back measured by a flexible ruler and digital inclinometer. There currently lacks a comprehensive, non-invasive method to measure the full spine. This study aims to test a 3D postural method since it is a quick method to use and potentially offers very robust data.
REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/SW/0239
Date of REC Opinion
13 Oct 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion