Anisotropic Textile Braces for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a prevalent chronic condition that gradually leads to the three dimensional deformity of the spine. Spine curvature increases in youths as puberty progresses. Generally, only observation is suggested for adolescents with early scoliosis (Cobb's angle ≤ 20°). Rigid brace treatment is too draconian for them due to the high corrective force which nearly constrains all movements. Flexible brace treatment is an alternative option; however, its efficacy is still controversial. Posture correction girdle with a specialized design for teenagers with scoliosis is limited and most part of them can only provide some improvement for bad postures, such as hunchback. A scientific approach should be used to design and develop posture correction girdle as a treatment option for adolescents with early scoliosis.
• Diagnosis of AIS
• Cobb's angle 10˚-20˚
• Risser grade ≤ 2
• No prior treatment
• Pre-menarche or post- menarche by no more than 1 year
• Ability to read and understand English or Chinese
• Physical and mental ability to adhere to anisotropic textile braces protocol