Analysis of diagnostic methods in trunk deformities in the developmental age

IntroductionPostural disorders are classified as simple, often called faulty posture, and complex, which are associated with spine curvature disorders. Postural disorders correctable with passive and active correction need to be distinguished from severe spinal disorders such as idiopathic scoliosis, Scheuermann's disease and congenital spine deformities.AimThe aim of this research was to prove the necessity of combined clinical and instrumental examination in the diagnosis of trunk deformities.Material and methodsTrunk abnormalities and deformities in the developmental age affect approximately 50%–60% of population, depending on the region of Poland. In this study, clinical and instrumental diagnosis of trunk deformities was analyzed.ResultsClinical assessment with the use of instrumental methods is fundamental in diagnosis of trunk deformities. Causes of faulty posture need to be identified, both in terms of location within the musculoskeletal system and etiology, and pathologies that require different diagnostic and therapeutic approaches need to be excluded.DiscussionDiagnosis of the cause of faulty posture is frequently possible only after a clinical and instrumental evaluation is performed. It results in isolating a group of children with structural deformities of musculoskeletal system that require a separate, specific treatment, from a group of children with postural disorders that require physiotherapy.ConclusionsThere is a need for implementing combined clinical and instrumental examination in the diagnosis of trunk deformities in the developmental age.