The influence of elastic orthotic belt on sagittal profile in adolescent idiopathic thoracic scoliosis: a comparative radiographic study with Milwaukee brace
2010

Effects of Elastic Orthotic Belt on Scoliosis in Teens

Sample size: 28 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jiang Jun, Qiu Yong, Mao Saihu, Zhao Qinghua, Qian Bangping, Zhu Feng

Primary Institution: Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China

Hypothesis

The correcting mechanism of the elastic orthotic belt may cause flattening of the spine in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.

Conclusion

The elastic orthotic belt could lead to more severe thoracic hypokyphosis compared to the Milwaukee brace.

Supporting Evidence

  • Both elastic orthotic belt and Milwaukee brace significantly decreased thoracic kyphosis.
  • The decrease in thoracic kyphosis was significantly larger with the elastic orthotic belt than with the Milwaukee brace.
  • No significant changes were observed in pelvic incidence between the three conditions.

Takeaway

Wearing a special belt for scoliosis might make the back even more flat than a traditional brace, which isn't good for kids with this condition.

Methodology

Twenty-eight female AIS patients were studied using radiographs in three conditions: no treatment, with elastic orthotic belt, and with Milwaukee brace.

Limitations

The study did not account for potential immediate residual effects of the elastic belt and did not compare the success rates of the two treatments.

Participant Demographics

All participants were female adolescents aged 12-16 with mild to moderate thoracic curves.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2474-11-219

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