Changes in the lumbosacral segment of the spine due to overweight in adults. Preliminary remarks.

The Authors studied postural changes in the lumbosacral segment of the spine due to severe obesity in 28 young adults of both sexes. In particular, the preliminary degree of pelvic rotation caused by overweight was evaluated by studying the lumbosacral angle (LSA) amplitude, changes in normal static equilibrium of the spine and lumbar hyperlordosis in relation to the lordotic angle (LA) amplitude. Body Build Index (BBI), the lumbosacral angle and the lordotic angle were compared to determine if any correlations existed among the three. Even though the patient number was limited, pathologic values for both the LSA and the LA were found in all 28 subjects. The Authors found no correlation between LSA and LA increase regarding BBI; on the contrary, a correlation was evident between LSA increase and LA. A decrease in the LSA and LA values took place after reduction in body weight, after therapeutic intervention. The Authors believe that a one year follow-up is necessary to evaluate any long term decrease in the values of the above mentioned angles.