Trinidad-and-Tabago-Congerss-Abstract-Book

20 th ISRRT World Congress 2018
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How does a Radiographer’s Job Satisfaction Influence their Body Posture to cause Back Pain
Adrian Sampath
Student Radiographer, COSTAATT, Trinidad & Tobago
HS1-2
Introduction: During my experience as a student radiographer, I have notice a constant outcry of back pain with
radiographers I trained with. My research was designed to identify the causes of the outcry, help health care
professionals become aware of the possible outcomes of poor body posture and help remedy with a simple exercise
routine.
Methods: A check list from the Clinical Human Factor Groups (CHFG) was modified to the scope of this research.
Using observational methods to obtain how radiographers interact with general x-ray equipment to obtain high quality
x-ray images, the findings were compared to what the recommended body postures are on the checklist. In addition,
questionnaires were used to help identify if radiographers have any unforeseen reasons or could justify themselves for
practicing poor body posture.
Results: A simple exercise routine was developed based on the findings. Recommendations was also included with
respect to a radiographer’s attire, posture and interactions with general x-ray equipment.
Conclusion: Causes as to why radiographers practice poor body posture was identified and a exercise routine
developed with sufficient recommendations that could aid in the reduction of the likelihood of poor ergonomics which
contributes to back pain.
GENERAL IMAGING
Balancing the Spine
Dr. Kimani White
Orthopaedic Consultant, EWMSC, Trinidad & Tobago
GI1-1
Purpose: Sagittal balance describes the alignment of those static and dynamic factors in the body designed to maintain
an efficient, stable stance and gait. Since its recognition, it has become an increasingly important topic in any pathology
that has the potential to disrupt balance, but especially in thoracolumbar spinal surgery, and particularly in the
management of adult spinal deformity. Pelvic morphology is a critical component, influencing regional, segmental and
global balance and serving as the coupling link between the weight bearing, mobile lower limbs and the dependent
spine.
Methods: A variety of techniques exist for the evaluation of balance, including force-plate analysis and radiographic
analysis. While the former is perhaps more accurate, the latter is far more practical, useful and hence common. From
these analyses emerge an ever-increasing multitude of diverse parameters, quantifying aspects of balance. These
include linear and angular relationships between different anatomic structures. While each parameter has its own merit,
recent studies have identified the most clinically significant parameters by virtue of their impact on standardized quality
of life measures.
Results: Using these parameters, normal spines can be classified, pathological and compensatory patterns identified
and the potential for realignment assessed. Values such as the Pelvic Incidence, Pelvic Tilt, and Sagittal Vertical Axis
have emerged as pivotal, and hence these values are used for diagnosis and as a guide for rehabilitation and surgical
intervention. The values have also been used in understanding older pathologies such as spondylolisthesis and the
evolution of the degenerative cascade in the transformation of the aging spine.
Conclusion: An understanding of the principles of Sagittal balance is thus critical in the management of spinal
pathology. Application of these principles, customization to the patient variables, a multidisciplinary approach, can
produce an optimal outcome.
20 th International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologist, World Congress
April 12 – 15, 2018 • Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Wrightson Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad, W.I.
Website: www.isrrt2018.org.tt Email: queries@isrrt2018.org.tt