Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
BACKROUND: Due to limited studies pertaining to the thoracic spine, there appears to be no
consensus regarding a gold standard to measure thoracic spine rotation range of motion. The axial
rotation measuring device was first mentioned in a research report by Lenehan, Fryer and McLaughlin
in 2003. The axial rotation measuring device was designed to test thoracic spine rotation range of
motion in a seated position. A pilot study of eighteen participants was conducted in order to test the
reliability of the device; despite this study little has been done to further establish the reliability and
validity of the axial rotation measuring device.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the intra - examiner, test re - test reliability of the
axial rotation measuring device, and to determine the measurement of agreement between the axial
rotation measuring device and the bubble inclinometer and goniometer devices. In addition, to
determine which of the devices is most reliable in measuring thoracic spine rotation range of motion.
METHOD: A total of fifty participants, aged between eighteen and forty - five, volunteered to be part of
this study. Prior to the commencement of the trial participants were screened according to an inclusion
and exclusion criteria. Those who met the criteria were given an information and consent form to read
and sign. A thorough case history, physical examination, cervical spine regional and lumbar spine
regional exams were then performed on each individual.
PROCEDURE: Each participant had their thoracic rotation range of motion measured using the axial
rotation measuring device, the goniometer and the bubble inclinometer. Strict standardisation protocols
were set for each device in order to limit any external error. Participants were required to have their
range of motion measured over two consecutive days. Each device required the participants to rotate
their thoracic spine thrice towards the left and thrice towards the right, on both days of testing. The
values measured were recorded in the participants file immediately after each rotation and the mean
degree of left and right rotation was calculated.
RESULTS: Statistical analysis showed substantial intra - class correlation coefficient scores for the axial
rotation measuring device, the goniometer and the bubble inclinometer. Repeated measures analysis of
variance showed a statistical difference between the axial rotation measuring device and the
goniometer, and the axial rotation measuring device and the bubble inclinometer, between days one
and two. No statistical difference was noted between the goniometer and the bubble inclinometer
between days one and two...