A simple posture meter.

In ankylosing spondylitis a simple method of measuring and recording spinal deformity is of value in assessing progress. Methods in use include serial photography, serial strip plaster-of-paris casts, and lead-moulding tracing the outline on to paper. The apparatus described below is cheaper, less cumbersome, and more simple and convenient to use. Construction It consists of an upright, 6 ft. 3 in. high, mounted on a wooden base (Fig. 1). The upright is made of 3-in. x 2-in. wood, and has fourteen horizontal holes bored through it, of 3/16-in. diameter, the centres being 3 in. apart. Through these closely fit cylindrical wooden rods, graduated in half inches. The rods vary in length, so that the longest projects 18 in. from the upright. Convenient projection lengths are five of 18 in., five of 10 in., and four of 6 in. Rubber caps at either end prevent displacement of the rods. Heel holds are fitted to the base. Method of Use The subject stands on the platform with his heels in the heel holds and back to the upright, and adopts his best posture. The rods are pushed through to press against the vertebral column and back of the head. The patient then steps off the platform, the distance by which each rod protrudes is noted, and the "spinal profile" is plotted on graph paper. Although this graph does not entirely exclude knee and hip deformity it provides a useful record of the patient's best standing position. Application The chart of an improving case of ankylosing spondylitis (Fig. 2) shows how easily progress can be assessed, without having to rely on clinical memory or elaborate records. The area between the profile and the upright gives an approximate estimate of the total deformity.