Idiopathic scoliosis and brace treatment: an innovative device to assess corrective pressure

The biomechanical influence of brace treatment for scoliosis is not understood. This prospective pilot study analyzed reliability of a system based on 100% textile sensors for measurement of pressure exerted by brace on trunk. Evaluation of modifications during changes in the location of the support zones and variations in amplitude of the pressure was observed in four patients, when considering three main daily positions mimicking day and nighttime wear. A calibration step allowed the determination of a conversion law between sensor data and pressure unit using a second order polynomial function with a high r(2)of 0.99. This prototype is the first of a new generation. Experimental pressure distribution could be useful for the further brace development.

Automated summary

This prospective pilot study analyzed the reliability of a system using 100% textile sensors to measure the pressure exerted by a scoliosis brace on the trunk. Variations in support zone locations and pressure amplitudes were observed in four patients across different daily positions, with a calibration step establishing a conversion law between sensor data and pressure units. The prototype, utilizing a second order polynomial function with a high r(2) value of 0.99, is the first of a new generation and the experimental pressure distribution data could be beneficial for further brace development.