Measurement Possibilities of Thoracic (C7-T12) and Lumbar (L1-L5) Curvature

Abstract

Spinal cord provides the support to withstand the weight of the human body. The lumbar and thoracic curves mostly represent the spine curvature of human. They are also used to determine the normality of the human spine. If the normality doesn’t exist these data are helpful in treating the human. Low back ache arises even if any of the curves shows abnormality. This study revolves around the available techniques or instruments in measuring of those mentioned curvatures and the standard of the instruments. Around the world, many countries have started collecting spine curvature data for more than five decades; however, India lacks in this field. Every instrument faces its own difficulties and providing its own advantages. Construction of one new machine which will be providing only the advantages is a hectic task. For collection of spine curvature data countries have developed various instruments such as (X-ray), Inclinometer, Arcometer, Goniometer, Flexicurve, Laser scanner, Fibre optic sensor, electromagnetic sensors, spinal mouse, etc.; some might not be accessible to Indian markets. Today, there is a die-hard need in developing of machine or instrument or technique which will overcome all the limitations that were provided by the above mentioned instruments.