# Photogrammetry in Spinal Assessment: A Comparative Analysis with Traditional Clinical Methods

## TL;DR

This study compares traditional methods with 3D photogrammetry for assessing spinal mobility and finds that photogrammetry is faster and reliable.

## Contribution

The study introduces photogrammetry as a faster and reliable alternative to traditional spinal mobility assessments.

## Key findings

- Photogrammetry showed strong correlations with traditional methods for spinal mobility assessment.
- 3D posture assessment was significantly faster than clinical evaluation.
- Photogrammetry provides objective data to enhance patient experience and treatment planning.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Spine mobility is essential for overall health and daily functioning. Accurate assessment of spinal mobility is necessary for diagnosing and managing orthopedic, neurological, and rheumatological disorders, particularly in patients experiencing lower back and thoracic pain. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of traditional clinical tests in comparison to the innovative photogrammetric 3D posture assessment for evaluating spinal mobility. Methods: A total of 20 patients from a medical clinic underwent tests to measure lumbar and thoracic spine mobility, including flexion, lateral incline, and axial rotation, using both conventional and 3D posture assessment methods. Results: We found strong correlations between investigated methods, which recommends photogrammetry as a reliable and effective tool for assessing posture in clinical practice. Furthermore, 3D posture assessment offers a faster approach (clinical evaluation: 2:59 ± 0.22 min vs. photogrammetry: 1:03 ± 0.01 min) and a more practical method for assessing spinal mobility, thereby enhancing the patient experience and providing clinicians with objective data for treatment planning. Conclusions: The study highlights the value of modern technologies in clinical assessment and therapeutic intervention, encouraging therapists to integrate photogrammetric methods into their daily practice to improve patient outcomes.