Development of Indices for back curvature and postural variations of the torso of women aged 55 and older

Abstract

Spinal curvature was identified as a primary factor that shows universal and progressive changes with age, causes overall postural variations in the torso, and in turn affects garment fit for older women. To incorporate spinal curvature into a garment, back curvature between the neck and the waist and seven torso regions of neck, shoulder, armhole, bust, waist, abdomen, and hip were operationally defined and interactions among the body regions were investigated. The purpose of this study was (1) to develop a measuring method for back curvature and posture in the torso and its validation, (2) to identify interrelationships between back curvature and posture in the torso, and (3) to interpret torso variations based on back curvature classification. A total of 21 indices were developed using 34 linear measurements and 165 body scans of females body scans aged 55 and older were analyzed from the sagittal plane. Two criteria for index development were body variations to the sagittal plane and those to the transverse plane. Results included: (1) each criteria for index development validated its independency in each body region and respective index values provided dimensional information for pattern development, (2) posture of one body region continuously affected the adjoining body region and sequential influence of back curvature on torso posture was confirmed, and (3) the torso posture varied depending on the back curvature clusters and a prominent and forward inclined back showed larger variations and greater deviations from the ideal posture. This study presented conceptual understanding of posture of women aged 55 and older and emphasized integration of research and practices.