TORSION METER

The D’Osualdo-Corazza torsiometer is an original manual instrument for measuring the rotation of the trunk in orthostatism.
Rotation, expression of the column torsion on the transverse plane, represents one of the main signs of true scoliosis. The torque meter it’s made of an arched base, a vertical telescopic rod connected to the base and by a mobile element above it, also arched circumference, parallel to the base, provided with a scale in degrees.
The total absence of invasiveness and the practicality of use makes the torque meter an ideal tool for use in a specialist clinic (physiatric, orthopedic), in the gym physiotherapy and movement analysis, providing immediate information and at a negligible cost compared to computerized equipment otherwise necessary.
Dimensions: 16÷24 x 12 x 6 h cm; Weight: 1.5 kg

A PRACTICAL TOOL FOR MEASURING THE TRUNK ROTATION IN ORTHOSTATISM

The evaluation of a subject with suspected scoliosis using a torque meter is carried out in a standing position. The basis of the tool is put to the sacrum; in this way a zero plane is defined as reference, with respect to which the alignment of the trunk on the transverse plane to the desired level will be read: from lumbar to middle back.
When the mobile element is placed against the back, it will slide into its housing by a corresponding number of degrees to the rotation of the trunk. An index on the housing indicates with precision degrees of rotation.

The tool is suitable for a diversified use:

• In standing position it accurately identifies a rotation of the trunk, one of the most sensitive clinical signs for identifying a true scoliosis;
• We can compare the static rotation with the rotation in anteroflexion (scoliometer, inclinometer) not always stackable and related data, but inaccurately, with vertebral torsion measured on radiography;
• In orthostatism or even in sitting position we can check for any change of rotation with a stretching exercise (information on defect reducibility);
• With a stabilized pelvis (preferably seated) we can evaluate the excursion of the trunk in an active rotation movement (articular range and symmetry of the excursion).