Several studies have investigated the mechanical behavior of the thoracolumbar spine. However, an accurate reference for normal functional local alignment and segmental motion at the thoracolumbar junction is still illusive. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional cohort study with a balanced distribution of age and sex of healthy subjects to examine the normal alignment and segmental motion at the thoracolumbar junction using dynamic plain radiography. This study aimed to provide data that can be used when planning surgery or performing rehabilitation in pathological situations.
Who can participate
Age range
20 Years – 78 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* A total of 120 asymptomatic healthy volunteer subjects aged 20 to 79 without back pain complaints were included if they successfully met the study's exclusion criteria
Exclusion Criteria:
* (1) coronal deformity (Cobb angle \> 10°); (2) a history of prior spine surgery; (3) a history of hip or knee arthroplasty or any other realignment surgery of the lower extremities (osteotomy, trauma, etc.); (4) complaints of back or neck pain that resulted in missed work, affected daily living activities, participation in recreational activities or required narcotic pain medication; (5) degenerative or pathologic conditions of the spine that necessitated physician intervention (i.e., physician appointment or epidural steroid injections); (6) non-ambulatory patients; (7) a history of neuromuscular disorders, inflammatory arthritis, or congenital anomalies; and (8) pregnancy
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Normal Functional Local Alignment and Segmental Motion at the Thoracolumbar Junction