The effects of a posterior superior iliac spine support device on upper trunk acceleration during gait in individuals with flat lumbar back posture.

BACKGROUND

The orientation of the pelvis is of particular importance to the sagittal curve of the spine and has geometric relationships with the top of the spine and lumbar lordosis. Changes in spinal shape or disruptions of sagittal balance in the spine, such as a flattened lumbar spine, have significant negative effects.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the posterior superior iliac spine support device (PSD) on upper trunk acceleration during gait in individuals with flat lumbar back posture.

METHODS

In total, 10 young male subjects with reduced lumbar lordosis (global lumbar lordosis angle (T10-S2): <-20∘) were recruited for this study. Participants walked 7 m with and without wearing a PSD at a self-selected speed while fitted with an accelerometer attached over the T7 spinous process.

RESULTS

The normalized AP acceleration of T7 with PSD (40.57 ± 11.22%) was significantly higher than those without PSD (37.10 ± 10.46%, p= 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that wearing the PSD immediately improved pelvic physiological movement during walking in individuals with lumbar flat back posture. Our findings may help healthcare professionals manage flat back posture in asymptomatic younger individuals.