The effect of postural scoliosis on lumbar apophyseal joints.

The effects of leg length inequality with postural scoliosis on the lumbar apophyseal joints was investigated by comparing paired left and right joints, using histological sections from cadavers having a leg length inequality of 1 cm or more, and cadavers having no leg length inequality. A statistical analysis of mid-joint geometry (articular cartilage and subchondral bone thickness) is made from mid-joint histological sections. The study clearly demonstrates that leg length inequality of 1 cm or more is associated with asymmetrical changes in joint cartilage and subchondral bone in the apical and lumbosacral apophyseal joints of the spine in postural scoliosis.