Postural assessment with the moiré technique in dialyzed patients

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have limited mobility. A disease that lasts for many years may harm the musculoskeletal system. Knowledge about changes in body posture in these patients is essential in preventing its degradation. In this work, we wanted to draw attention to the changes in the spatial arrangement of the spine and the entire torso in dialysis patients. The study group consisted of 22 female and 32 male dialysis patients. The posture was examined using the moiré projection technique with a portable Computer-Aided System for Posture Assessment which calculated 82 angular and linear parameters of the spine, scapulae, and pelvis in the frontal and sagittal planes. A significant sexual dimorphism was observed for each spine segment. Asymmetry of the scapulae and pelvis was observed in both sexes. Abnormalities may help to establish an accurate exercise plan for dialysis patients. Proper stimulation of the locomotor system can prevent further degradation of body posture.

Keywords: body posture; chronic disease; dialyzed patients; kidney transplantation; moiré technique; physical activity; public health.