This study investigates whether wearing specific back braces (spinal orthoses) can improve movement and physical function in older adults (60 years and older) with hyperkyphosis, a forward curvature of the upper spine. By testing two types of braces, the study seeks to find effective ways to manage hyperkyphosis and enhance mobility, independence, and quality of life in this population.
Study Purpose
The purpose is to evaluate the impact of two types of thoracic spinal orthoses on functional mobility, which includes walking, muscle function, and overall physical activity. This information will help healthcare providers better understand how braces can be used to manage hyperkyphosis and improve daily functioning for older adults.
Who Can Participate?
The study will include adults aged 60 or older who have been diagnosed with hyperkyphosis. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups:
1. Group 1: Participants will use the Triple-Adjustable Posture Corrector (TAPC), a brace designed to improve posture and reduce kyphosis. 2. Group 2: Participants will use the Generation Dynamic Osteoporosis Brace (G-DOB), another type of spinal brace targeting posture and mobility. 3. Control Group: Participants will not wear any brace.
How the Study Works
The study will run for 16 weeks. Participants in the brace groups will wear their assigned braces throughout the day, except during specific activities like bathing, sleeping, and swimming. No other changes to their daily routines will be required.
At the start and end of the study, participants will undergo assessments to measure their physical function and mobility. These assessments will include:
* Gait analysis: Evaluates walking patterns using advanced 3D motion technology. * Muscle strength and joint function testing: Measures how well muscles and joints are working using isokinetic dynamometry. * Muscle activity recording: Tracks how muscles respond during movement using surface electromyography (EMG). * Physical activity monitoring: Captures activity levels using accelerometers, which are small devices that track movement.
Why Is This Study Important?
Hyperkyphosis can lead to challenges in daily life, such as difficulty walking, decreased balance, pain, and a higher risk of falls. While physical therapy and exercise are common treatments, many older adults need additional support to manage the condition. Spinal orthoses may offer a practical, non-invasive option to improve posture, reduce symptoms, and increase physical activity.
By comparing the effects of these two braces, the study aims to:
1. Determine whether these orthoses improve functional mobility, such as walking and muscle performance. 2. Provide evidence to guide healthcare professionals in using braces to treat hyperkyphosis. 3. Develop a standardized approach for incorporating orthoses into the care of older adults with this condition.
Benefits for Participants
While the study focuses on research, participants may also experience direct benefits, such as:
* Improved posture and comfort while moving. * Increased awareness of their physical health and function. * Access to state-of-the-art assessments and expert support throughout the study.
How Will Results Be Used?
The findings will inform healthcare providers about the potential benefits of using spinal braces for older adults with hyperkyphosis. If successful, this research could lead to:
* Better treatment plans for patients. * Increased availability of braces tailored for older adults. * Improved quality of life for people living with hyperkyphosis.
Key Takeaways for Patients and Families
* Hyperkyphosis is a manageable condition, and this study explores a promising new way to support mobility and independence. * Participation involves wearing a brace during regular daily activities and attending two comprehensive evaluations. * The study is safe, non-invasive, and designed to minimize disruptions to daily life.
This research offers an exciting opportunity to improve care for older adults with hyperkyphosis. By understanding how braces affect movement and strength, healthcare providers can develop better tools and strategies to support aging populations. Families and caregivers can also benefit from knowing there are new, evidence-based options to help their loved ones stay active and independent.
Aged 60 years or older
Clinical diagnosis of hyperkyphosis
Ability to walk without assistive devices
Cognitive impairment
Inability to complete the proposed assessments
Non-compliance with orthosis use during the intervention period
Factorial
Triple-Adjustable Posture Corrector Manufacturer: Mercur®, Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil
DeviceThe Triple-Adjustable Posture Corrector is a thoracic spinal orthosis designed to provide biomechanical support and postural correction in individuals with excessive thoracic kyphosis. It consists of elastic and adjustable non-rigid bands positioned around the shoulders and thorax, allowing individualized tension regulation. The brace promotes scapular retraction and axial alignment by increasing proprioceptive feedback and limiting thoracic flexion. Participants randomized to this intervention will be instructed to wear the orthosis for a minimum of four consecutive hours per day, during waking hours, for 16 weeks. The orthosis is to be removed during bathing, aquatic activities, and sleep. Individualized fitting will be provided at baseline by trained personnel, following the manufacturer's guidelines. Adherence will be monitored through self-reported daily logbooks. Participants will be advised to report discomfort, adverse effects, or perceived benefits. The primary clinical obje
Generation Dynamic Osteoporosis Brace Manufacturer: Bort®, Weinstadt, Germany
DeviceThe Generation Dynamic Osteoporosis Brace is a semi-rigid thoracic orthosis designed to stabilize the spine and counteract the progression of hyperkyphosis, especially in populations at risk for vertebral fragility. The brace is composed of lightweight, breathable material, with anterior and posterior structural support and adjustable tension straps. It is intended to reduce spinal flexion, improve sagittal alignment, and facilitate back extensor activation. Participants assigned to this group will wear the orthosis for a minimum of four hours daily during waking hours, excluding sleep and aquatic activities, over a 16-week period. The orthosis will be individually fitted at the initial session by a trained physical therapist, following manufacturer protocols to ensure comfort, stability, and effectiveness. Participants will receive a daily logbook to record usage duration, comfort level, and perceived effects. Adherence will be monitored weekly. The brace is intended to improve trun
Thoracic Kyphosis Angle (degrees)
Thoracic spinal curvature will be assessed using the Goniometer-Pro® mobile application (Digiflex, USA), which provides a validated digital estimation of the Cobb angle in degrees. The measurement will be performed in the standing position with anatomical reference points on the thoracic spine. Two consistent measures will be averaged. This outcome evaluates structural postural changes over time.
Gait Speed (meters/second)
Walking speed will be measured in meters per second using the BTS SMART-D™ 3D motion capture system and a synchronized resistive pressure platform (PWalk 3000, BTS Engineering, Italy). Participants will walk at self-selected speed over a flat walkway, and the average of three valid trials will be reported.
Stride Length (centimeters)
Stride length will be assessed using the BTS SMART-D™ 3D motion capture system with markers placed according to the modified Helen Hayes protocol. The mean stride length from three valid gait trials will be calculated.
Step Width (centimeters)
Step width will be measured in centimeters using synchronized 3D motion capture and baropodometric analysis. The mediolateral distance between foot placements will be averaged from three valid walking trials.
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Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul
Lead sponsor
Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos
Collaborator
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