US 2019/0239797 A1 · SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EVALUATION OF SCOLIOSIS AND KYPHOSIS

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for characterizing a condition of spinal deformities are contemplated. Mobile devices that incorporate inclinometers or accelerometers (e.g., a smart phone) are held securely in a supporting structure that renders it useful to characterize spinal deformities such as scoliosis and/or kyphosis. Supporting structures can include features that secure the mobile device (for example, chamfered surfaces, high friction surfaces, pliant projections, straps, hook and loop enclosures, tensioning devices, detents, etc.) in an upper portion and a lower portion that includes at least one, but preferably two or more rollers, and an interposing centrally placed notch dimensioned to permit the assembled device (supporting structure and mobile device) to span the width of a typical human spinal column. At least one roller includes an encoder (e.g., optical, mechanical, and/or magnetic encoders) that provide data related to their rotation or translation, thereby providing a measure of distance travelled as the device rolls, as well as direction. Such a support device can include additional features, such as additional sensors that are accessible by the mobile device, a centrally placed guide (such as a projected LED laser, illuminated filament, flexible bristle, etc) that can be used to keep the assembled device in alignment during use, and supplementary battery power for the mobile device.

Claims22

Dependent claims

-40. (canceled)

A method for characterizing a condition of a spinal deformity in a subject, comprising:

placing, while the subject is in a first test position, the testing device of claim 14 on a first starting position along the spine of the subject, such that the notch of the testing device is centered on the spine;
moving the testing device along the spine on the first roller;
while moving the testing device, collecting data related to a first distance traveled from the encoder associated with the first roller of the testing device and at least one of (1) data related to a first lateral tilt from the testing device or (2) data related to a first forward tilt from the testing device;
placing, while the subject is in a second test position, the testing device on a second starting position along the spine, such that the notch of the testing device is centered on the spine;
moving the testing device along the spine on the first roller;
while moving the testing device, collecting data related to a second distance traveled from the encoder associated with the first roller of the testing device and at least one of (1) data related to a second lateral tilt from the testing device or (2) data related to a second forward tilt from the testing device;
providing the data related to the first and second distance traveled and at least one of (1) the first and second lateral tilt or (2) the first and second forward tilt to a database;
comparing the data related to either of (1) the first or second lateral tilt or (2) the first or second forward tilt to a stored value to make a determination of the condition of the spinal deformity;
and
generating a report related to condition of the spinal deformity, wherein the condition is one of (1) presence of a scoliosis deformity, (2) presence of a kyphosis deformity, or (3) no scoliosis or kyphosis deformity in the subject.

7 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Systems and methods for evaluation of scoliosis and kyphosis

Life of this patent

Systems and methods for evaluation of scoliosis and kyphosis

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims22