A quarter of all women aged over 50 suffer from at least one fracture of a vertebral body due to osteoporosis. A clinical study has demonstrated for the first time that an orthopaedic aid is an effective treatment for this condition, even though this is normally a process for drug treatments.
The back orthosis Spinomed gave sensational results (published in the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, March 2004).1
The study (crossover design) was performed on 62 female patients (average age of 73 years) for 12 months, who had already suffered an average of two vertebral body fractures.
Results: Use of the back orthosis increased muscular strength in the trunk and thus improved posture. The humpback was clearly improved and the kyphosis angle decreased by 11%. Height increased by a mean of 6 mm. The increase in muscular strength improved stability when standing and this prevented falls and further bone fractures.
The patients also reported that their quality of life had improved. They suffered less pain, had to take fewer breaks for a rest during the day and felt more energetic. The most convincing result was patient satisfaction, as 90% of the women did not wish to return the orthosis after completing the study. Thus, Spinomed is the first orthosis with efficacy demonstrated in an evidence-based study. For more information visit www.medi.de.
Source: Pfeifer M, Begerow B, Minne HW: Effects of a New Spinal Orthosis on Posture, Trunk Strength and Quality of Life in Women with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2004; 83: Seite 177-186
