Novel method for evaluation of hindfoot alignment in weight-bearing position using laser beam.
Tadasuke Ohnishi, Mitsumasa Hida, Yukio Nakamura and 1 others
PMID 29581674WHAT IT FOUND
A laser-based method for assessing hindfoot alignment matched radiographic results closely in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Traditional goniometry showed poor agreement with X-rays. This laser technique offers a radiation-free alternative, though it requires training and has not been tested for reliability between different clinicians.
Key findings
01The laser-based measurement method showed a strong significant correlation with radiographic assessment of hindfoot alignment.
02Traditional goniometry showed only a moderate correlation with radiographic assessment, which was significantly weaker than the laser method.
03The study did not assess the reliability of the laser method within or between examiners.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
The study did not assess inter-rater or intra-rater reliability, so it is unknown if different clinicians would get consistent results using this method. The measurement procedure is complex and requires specific training, which may limit its immediate adoption in busy clinical settings. The sample was small (n=23) and consisted only of individuals with knee osteoarthritis, so the findings may not generalize to other populations or pathologies. The study was a cross-sectional comparison of measurement tools, not a clinical trial, so it does not prove that using this method leads to better patient outcomes.
Declared interests
The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume this laser method is ready for routine clinical use. The study did not test whether different therapists would measure the same foot the same way, and the technique is complex enough to require specific training.