Last modified: 2014-01-17
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Linear Excursion Measurement Device (LEMD) is used to detect and objectively record changes in cervical posture over time and in quantifying the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions for posture-related problems.
OBJECTIVE: The study investigated the temporal stability and reliability of measurements obtained at two selected landmarks from the LEMD; and the influence of time of day on the measurements obtained from the device.
METHODS: The study involved 46 volunteering apparently healthy undergraduates (mean age 22.3±2.26years). Participants’ bio-data were obtained. Vertical and horizontal movements at the selected landmarks were obtained from the LEMD (morning and afternoon) for four consecutive days, and the excursion angles computed for each day. Data obtained were presented using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation, and analyzed using inferential statistics of Paired t-test and Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Level of significance was set at 0.05.
RESULTS: Average total time of measurement per participant for the 4 days was 145seconds. No significant difference was found between morning and afternoon computed excursion angles at both landmarks; and in the average daily computed excursion angles within the 4 days (P> 0.05 in each case). A significant relationship existed between day 1 and 2 (r= 0.247, r= 0.316), day 1 and 3 (r= 0.425, r= 0.478), and day 1 and 4 (r= 0.274, r= 0.592) at both landmarks respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: LEMD is time efficient and reliable with temporal stability, and can be used by physiotherapists for assessing and quantifying improvement with intervention in patients with cervical spine problems.