The effects of two spinal orthoses on balance in elderly people with thoracic kyphosis

摘要

Background: Hyperkyphosis increases the risk of falls for elderly people by reducing postural balance. Spinomed orthosis and the posture-training support are two available options for improving postural balance but have never been compared. Objectives: To compare the effect of the Spinomed orthosis and the posture-training support on balance in elderly people with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Study Design: This study is a clinical trial on an accessible sample of elderly people with thoracic kyphosis. Method: Eighteen participants (16 women and 2 men), aged 60-80 years, with thoracic kyphosis greater than 50°, completed the study procedure. Subjects were randomly allocated to two groups, namely, Spinomed orthosis and the posture-training support groups. Sensory organization test and limits of stability were assessed using the Eq-uiTest system and the Balance Master system, respectively. Balance score, directional control, and reaction time were measured to evaluate balance with and without orthosis in a random order. Results: In the posture-training support group, significant changes were observed in the studied balance parameters: balance score (p < 0.001), directional control (p = 0.027), and reaction time (p = 0.047). There was a significant change in balance score (p < 0.001) and directional control (p = 0.032) in the Spinomed group. However, there were no significant differences in the effect of the two orthoses, the Spinomed orthosis and posture-training support, on balance factors. Conclusion: Both Spinomed orthosis and posture-training support may improve balance in the elderly with thoracic hyperkyphosis in a similar manner.