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The effect of a semi-rigid thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) on foot pressure in elderly subjects presenting with spinal hyperkyphosis

Abstract Purpose: The ageing process can be accompanied by a degeneration of the spine and increase the risk of thoracic hyperkyphosis (excessive spinal forward curvature) amongst elderly people. This condition can in turn impair mobility, reduce balance, and increase the risk of falling and mortality in affected individuals. The use of corrective orthotic bracing has been shown to improve spinal posture, and increase stability and balance amongst the elderly. However, there is little evidence that evaluates the use of corrective braces on foot pressure changes in these subjects. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the use of a thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) on 19 subjects over 60 years old who presented with hyperkyphosis. We measured foot pressure using the Pedar-X system before (without brace) and after (with brace) immediate using a TLSO in both static (quite standing) and dynamic (walking on a 5 meters freeway) scenarios. Results: The results demonstrated that using a TLSO immediately decreases forefoot pressures in stasis, and around the first metatarsal, as well as pressures relating to the second to fifth metatarsals under dynamic conditions. Hindfoot pressures were increased, but not significantly. Conclusion: This study showed that using a TLSO can be beneficial for elderly people with hyperkyphosis. Implications for rehabilitation The ageing process can be accompanied by a degeneration of the spine and increase the risk of thoracic hyperkyphosis. The use of corrective orthotic bracing has been shown to improve spinal posture, and increase stability and balance amongst the elderly. Using a TLSO decreases forefoot pressures in stasis, and around the first metatarsal, as well as pressures relating to the second to fifth metatarsals under dynamic conditions.