Article

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
degrees , 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. 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. Clinical relevance Despite the
importance of falls suffered by elderly people, not much attention has been paid
to balance improvement and fall prevention while managing hyperkyphosis. This
study evaluates the effect of the Spinomed orthosis and posture-training support
on balance in hyperkyphotic elderly people. It provides some new insights into
reducing the risk of falls for elderly people.

Langue : ANGLAIS