Frontal-Mental Line Inclination Test for assessment of cervical curvature: validation and applicability

Abstract

Introduction: Alternative testing for X-rays in the assessment of the spine have the advantage of not causing radiation problems, but need to be validated. Objective: To propose a clinical test for assessment of the cervical spine based on the frontal-mental line inclination, identifying its concurrent validity in relation to the gold standard and determining its clinical applicability. Method: The present study was separated into two phases: (1) Test of Frontal-mental Line Inclination’s (TFMLI) validation protocol (evaluation of head position using X-ray analysis and computerized photogrammetry and assessment of cervical curvature using X-ray analysis and the TFMLI) (n = 35); (2) testing the possibility of performing the TFMLI with a universal goniometer (n = 23). Results: In phase 1, for the evaluation of head position, the gold standard and photogrammetry showed high and significant correlation (r = 0.602; p < 0.001). When evaluating cervical curvature, the gold standard and the TFMLI showed high and significant correlation (r = 0.597; p = 0.019). In phase 2, for the evaluation of head position, photogrammetry and goniometry showed high and significant correlation (rs = 0.662; p < 0.001). For the evaluation of cervical curvature, the TFMLI performed with photographs and with goniometry showed almost perfect and significant correlation (r = 0.969; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The TFMLI is suitable for an initial evaluation of the cervical spine posture of individuals with anterior head position and can be applied in clinical practice with the use of a universal goniometer.

Repeatability and reproducibility of a topographic system to evaluate the spine

“…Therefore, the development of new tools for evaluating the spine is relevant in the clinical environment, indicating the need to conduct further research on this subject. Studies need to evaluate the use of more sophisticated methods, such as computerized photogrammetry and topographic evaluations, as they provide accurate and quantitative information (Achour et al, 2013;Carneiro, 2014;Pivotto et al, 2019).…”