Walking and Balance Related to Sagittal Spinal Posture Alignment

WiSPA: Walking and Balance Related to Sagittal Spinal Posture and Alignment

This study aims to improve understanding of the relationship between spinal alignment and walking and balance in people who have degenerative spinal conditions.

This prospective cohort study will include people who are attending physiotherapy to address a degenerative spinal condition and measure them longitudinally. The investigators will measure spinal alignment, walking capacity and pattern, dynamic balance, and back muscle strength along with self-reported measures that reflect the person's functional self-efficacy, quality of life, and general health. Physical and self-reported outcome measures will be assessed at baseline before the physiotherapy-led exercise class commences, after completion at 6 weeks, and 6 months post baseline.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participant is diagnosed with a degenerative spinal condition.
• Participant is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study.
• Men and women aged 18 years or older.
• Participant is able to understand and participate safely in a physiotherapy measurement assessment.
• Participant is enrolled in physiotherapy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participant is unable to stand independently.
• Participant has a neurological condition which alters motor function and/or postural control.