Özet:

Objective: Increased body mass and changes in the center of gravity due to obesity may affect the structure and mobility of the spine along with balance. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between structure and mobility of the spine and balance in obese children. Material and Method: Fourteen children who were diagnosed with obesity, with a median age of 14 years (IQR 25/75: 12/16 years), and with a median body mass index of 34.9 kg/m² (IQR 25/75: 31.9/37.8 kg/m²) were included. Balance was assessed by using a computer assisted device, while structure and mobility of the spine was evaluated with the Hocoma Valedo-Shape® device. Results: A moderate statistically significant relationship was found between the structure of the thoracic region and the balance scores of double leg standing with eyes open (r=0.537, p=0.048), and eyes closed (r=0.562, p=0.037). No significant correlations were detected between balance parameters and mobility of thoracic and lumbar regions, structure of lumbar region, and sacral/spinal inclination values (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to our results, there is a positive relationship between the structure of the spine and balance. The increase in the kyphotic angle of the spine, especially in the thoracic region, may negatively affect the balance by increasing the oscillations in the anterior-posterior direction. We think that monitoring the structure and mobility of the spine of obese children throughout their developments is important for preventing further problems.

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