Reliability of PHAS in Postural Hyperkyphosis

This study is designed to assess the reliability of the Postural Habits and Awareness Scale (PHAS) in individuals diagnosed with postural hyperkyphosis. Postural hyperkyphosis is increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles, prolonged sitting, and technological device use, leading to significant postural deviations and musculoskeletal complaints. Early detection and management of postural habits are essential to prevent long-term spinal deformities and functional limitations.

The PHAS was developed to systematically evaluate individuals' postural awareness and habits in daily life, focusing on factors that contribute to poor posture and spinal alignment. The scale assesses dimensions such as postural habits, awareness of posture-disturbing factors, positional awareness, and ergonomic considerations. However, its psychometric properties, particularly reliability in hyperkyphotic patients, have not yet been established.

This observational, cross-sectional methodological study will employ standardized psychometric methods to analyze the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the PHAS. The scale's ability to produce stable and consistent results over time will be tested through repeated administration. Additionally, concurrent validity will be examined by comparing PHAS scores with the Kyphosis-Specific Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (KSSA), which measures patients' perception of their spinal deformity.

The findings will provide valuable insights into the scale's utility for clinical and research purposes. Establishing PHAS as a reliable tool could allow physiotherapists, ergonomists, and healthcare professionals to objectively assess postural habits and awareness, design personalized rehabilitation programs, and monitor treatment outcomes. Furthermore, the scale could be integrated into preventive strategies aimed at improving postural control and spinal health in both clinical practice and community settings.

Research Team:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Zengin Alpözgen (Principal Investigator) PhD. PT Kübra Kardeş (Istinye University) MSc PT Selin Uz Tunçay (Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa) MSc PT Merve Koyuncu Cenikli (Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa)

Inclusion criteria

• Age between 8 and 65 years
• Diagnosed with postural hyperkyphosis (Cobb angle ≥ 50° confirmed by clinical and radiological evaluation)
• Ability to perform daily activities independently
• Voluntary participation and signed informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of scoliosis or other spinal deformities
• Kyphosis due to severe osteoporosis or pathological fractures
• Diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis or other inflammatory spinal diseases
• Functional limitations due to acute or chronic pain
• Previous postural awareness training or spinal rehabilitation within the last 6 months
• Cognitive impairment or severe psychiatric disorder preventing independent questionnaire completion