Validity and Reliability of an Artificial Intelligence-Based Posture Estimation Software for Measuring Cervical and Lower-Limb Alignment Versus Radiographic Imaging.

Background/

Objectives

Accurate postural assessment is essential for managing musculoskeletal disorders; however, routine screening is often limited by radiation exposure, cost, and accessibility constraints of radiography. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled automated, marker-free analysis using two-dimensional photographs. This study evaluated the validity and reliability of MORA Vu, an AI-based posture estimation software, against radiographic parameters.

Methods

A prospective pilot study was conducted with 72 participants, divided equally into the cervical and lower-limb alignment groups. Forward head posture (FHP) and digital hip-knee-ankle (DHKA) angles were measured using MORA Vu and compared with corresponding radiographic parameters. Three healthcare professionals independently conducted the AI-based assessments. Correlations were analyzed, and interrater reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

FHP showed the strongest correlation with the craniovertebral angle (r = -0.712) and C2-7 sagittal vertical axis (r = 0.704). The DHKA angle strongly correlated with the radiographic hip-knee-ankle angle (r = 0.754). Interrater reliability demonstrated high agreement (ICC: 0.84 FHP, 0.90 DHKA).

Conclusions

MORA Vu demonstrated strong validity and high reliability, supporting its potential as a noninvasive screening tool for postural assessment. Given its accessibility and radiation-free nature, it may serve as a viable alternative for routine postural evaluation.