Quality of Life and Brace Compliance in Adolescents with Scoliosis
Author Information
Author(s): LouAnn Rivett, Alan Rothberg, Aimee Stewart, Rowan Berkowitz
Primary Institution: University of the Witwatersrand
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the quality of life in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis who comply with a brace protocol versus those who do not.
Conclusion
Poor compliance with a brace protocol is associated with poorer quality of life, particularly in terms of vitality and psychosocial functioning.
Supporting Evidence
- Compliant patients had a mean total BrQ score of 83.7, while non-compliant patients scored 64.4.
- The compliant group scored significantly higher in six out of eight domains measuring vitality and social, emotional, and physical functioning.
- Non-compliant subjects reported lower self-esteem and vitality.
Takeaway
If kids with scoliosis wear their braces as they should, they feel better about themselves and their lives. If they don't, they feel worse.
Methodology
The Brace Questionnaire was administered to 31 AIS patients after a minimum of 1 year of wearing a brace, comparing scores between compliant and non-compliant groups.
Potential Biases
Reliance on patient self-reporting for compliance may introduce bias.
Limitations
The sample size is relatively small, and results may not be generalizable.
Participant Demographics
Participants were South African girls aged 13-16 with idiopathic scoliosis and Cobb angles of 25-40 degrees.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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