Digital Innovation for Individual Approach to Incorrect Spine Posture in Adolescents “NOVA-SPINE”

Posture is a “habitual attitude” of an individual determined by the contraction of skeletal muscle groups that ensure a certain position of the body and its parts in space. Correct posture is determined by an ergonomically favorable state of neuro-musculoskeletal interaction to protect body structures from the appearance of deformities. Poor posture, with functional and symptomatic consequences, is common among adolescents in industrialized countries due to sedentary habits and significant changes in physical development and mental status, which trigger postural alterations such as hyperkyphosis and scoliosis. The current diagnostic approach to poor posture in this segment of the population is based mainly on visual inspection of the spine, which generally exhibits low-sensitivity features. At the same time, prevention of spinal deformities resulting from postural alterations through physical activity and self-correction of postural habits implemented during puberty has no scientific evidence and currently lacks adequate monitoring to show any benefits. The proposed research project, funded by the MUR under PRIN 2022 (D.D. No. 104/2022), proposes a new strategic model, which aims to potentially transform current diagnostic practices and provide a scientifically grounded approach to managing adolescent posture and long-term musculoskeletal health. Specifically, it introduces two different devices: NOVA-SPINE 1, a sensor-equipped diagnostic tool designed for enhanced precision, and NOVA-SPINE 2, a custom wearable device intended to support continuous postural management.