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

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.

To compare the effect of the Spinomed orthosis and the posture-training support on balance in elderly people with thoracic hyperkyphosis.

This study is a clinical trial on an accessible sample of elderly people with thoracic kyphosis.

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 EquiTest 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.

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.

Both Spinomed orthosis and posture-training support may improve balance in the elderly with thoracic hyperkyphosis in a similar manner.