Functional Intimate Apparel for Adolescents With Early Scoliosis

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a prevalent chronic condition that gradually leads to the three dimensional deformity of the spine. Spinal 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; however, its efficacy is still controversial. Functional intimate apparel 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 functional intimate apparel as a treatment option for adolescents with early scoliosis.

This project aims to combine clinical experience with textiles and materials sciences to research and develop a functional intimate apparel for adolescents with early scoliosis. As a result, this will reduce the future likelihood of brace wear or surgery.

In this study, the eligible subjects will be given a functional intimate apparel to wear for 8 hours a day. Monitoring and observation will be provided during a 6-month wear trial. The effectiveness of the functional intimate apparel will be evaluated by pre- and post- treatment X-ray radiography and sonography.

This project aims to combine clinical experience with textiles and materials sciences to research and develop a functional intimate apparel for adolescents with early scoliosis. As a result, this will reduce the future likelihood of brace wear or surgery.

The design of functional intimate apparel will incorporate different mechanisms, such as a) compression and pulling forces through a close fit of the intimate apparel, b) lumbar flexion by using a supporting belt, c) transverse forces applied by inserting pads inside the pocket lining with the principle of the 3-point pressure system, d) axial rotation or coupled motion by using a system with uneven straps, and e) an active mechanism that aims to shift the trunk away from areas of pressure.

In this study, the eligible subjects will be given a functional intimate apparel to wear for 8 hours a day. Monitoring and observation will be provided during a 6-month wear trial. The effectiveness of the functional intimate apparel will be evaluated by pre- and post- treatment X-ray radiography and sonography.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 10 to 13 years
* Diagnosis of AIS in early stage
* Primary Cobb angle 15-35 degrees
* Pre-menarche or post- menarche by no more than 1 year
* Ability to read and understand English or Chinese
* At high risk for curve progression
* Skeletally immature (Risser grade 0,1 or 2)
* Physical and mental ability to adhere to functional intimate apparel protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindications for x-ray exposure
* Diagnosis of other musculoskeletal or developmental illness that might be responsible for the spinal curvature
* History of previous surgical or orthotic treatment for AIS
* Contraindications for pulmonary and/ or exercise tests
* Psychiatric disorders
* Recent trauma
* Recent traumatic (emotional) event