The Effects of Spinomed Orthosis on Balance and Walking Performance in Elderly People with Thoracic Hyperkyphosis

Abstract

Background: Thoracic hyperkyphosis is one of the common conditions that cause balance and walking impairments in the elderly. The use of Spinomed orthosis is an effective treatment approach for hyperkyphosis, but unfortunately, there is little evidence to support its effect on the balance and walking parameters of elderly people with thoracic hyperkyphosis. 
 Aim: This study was planned to investigate the effect of the Spinomed orthosis on balance and walking parameters comprehensively.
 Method: Thirty-four volunteer elderly people with thoracic kyphosis greater than 40° were recruited for this study. All participants were asked to wear the Spinomed orthosis for 1.5 h to get used to them. Postural stability, limits of stability, and modified-Clinical Test of Sensory Organization were assessed using Biodex Balance System while walking parameters were assessed using the G-Walk system with and without orthosis. 
 Results: There was a significant improvement in all balance parameters with Spinomed orthosis (p