Occiput to Wall Distance OWD
Original Editor - User Name
Top Contributors - Lucinda hampton, Manisha Shrestha and Aminat Abolade
Objective[edit | edit source]
The Occiput to Wall Distance is a routine clinical test for cervical spine mobility that has been in use for many years. The OWD may be abnormal in kyphosis (forward curvature of the upper thoracic spine) due to either spondyloarthritis or osteoporosis, as well as in other conditions such as postural instability, congenital spinal deformity and marked obesity.
Intended Population[edit | edit source]
Method of Use[edit | edit source]
The OWD is measured by having an examinee stand with the back against a wall keeping the posture as straight as possible and with the heels, buttocks and shoulders touching the wall. While looking forward, the examinee also attempts to have the back of the head (the occiput) touch the wall as well. In most normal individuals in this standard position, the occiput will touch the wall and the OWD measurement will be zero. If the occiput does not touch the wall, then the OWD is measured with a ruler. A value greater than 2 cm. is considered to be abnormal[1].
Reference[edit | edit source]
Evidence[edit | edit source]
Reliability[edit | edit source]
Validity[edit | edit source]
Responsiveness[edit | edit source]
Miscellaneous[edit | edit source]
Links[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National health and nutrition examination survey. Available from:https://wwwn.cdc.gov/Nchs/Nhanes/2009-2010/ARX_F.htm#Protocol_and_Procedure (last accessed 28.4.2020)
