title: Effectiveness of audio-biofeedback in postural training for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients.
abstract: The possibility of using learned physiological responses in control of progressive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) was investigated. Sixteen (16) AIS patients with progressing or high-risk curves (Cobb's angle between 25 degrees and 35 degrees at start and reducible by lateral bending) were fitted with a device with tone alarm for poor posture. In the first 18 months of application, 3 patients defaulted and 4 showed curve progression > 10 degrees (2 changed to rigid spinal orthoses and 2 underwent surgery). The curves for the other 9 patients were kept under control (within +/- 5 degrees of Cobb's angle) and 5 of them have reached skeletal maturity and terminated the application. The remaining 4 patients were still using the devices until skeletal maturity or curve progression. The curve control rate was 69%. A long-lasting active spinal control could be achieved through the patient's own spinal muscles. Nevertheless, before the postural training device could become a treatment modality, a long-term study for more AIS patients was necessary. This project is ongoing in the Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital, Sandy Bay, Hong Kong.
authors: Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rehabilitation Engineering Centre, Hong Kong, China. rcmswong@polyu.edu.hk
authors: M S
authors: MS
authors: Wong
authors: A F
authors: AF
authors: Mak
authors: K D
authors: KD
authors: Luk
authors: J H
authors: JH
authors: Evans
authors: B
authors: B
authors: Brown
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001676:Biofeedback, Psychology; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011187:Posture; D011336:Probability; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012600:Scoliosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome