Does Trunk Self-Elongation Instruction Lead to Changes in Effective Trunk Height and Spino-Pelvic Parameters? A Radiographic Analysis.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in trunk height and variations in spino-pelvic parameters during trunk self-elongation. Two populations were studied: non-athletes and gymnasts, who differ in their engagement with core-strengthening exercises.

METHODS

EOS biplanar radiographs were taken on 14 non-athletes and 24 gymnasts in both neutral and trunk self-elongation positions. Three-dimensional reconstructions of the pelvis and spine were used to calculate effective trunk height, thoracic and lumbar contributions, and spino-pelvic parameters.

RESULTS

Trunk self-elongation resulted in a significant increase in trunk height for both groups (7 mm on average, range: -1 to 14 mm), accompanied by a reduction in thoracic kyphosis for all participants (-10° for non-athletes and -17° for gymnasts, on average) and a reduction in lumbar lordosis in most participants (-5° for non-athletes and -7° for gymnasts, on average). However, some individuals in both groups exhibited an increase in lumbar lordosis, which reduced the contribution of the lumbar region to overall trunk height.

CONCLUSIONS

Trunk self-elongation instruction effectively increases trunk height, but additional instructions, such as pelvic retroversion, may enhance its effectiveness.