[Prospective evaluation of the effects of a spinal orthosis on physical function and quality of life in women with osteoporosis].

AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the short- and intermediate-term effects of a flexible spinal orthosis on postural control, neuromuscular performance, physical activity, fall-related self-efficacy, quality of life and perceived pain in osteoporosis.

METHOD: 72 postmenopausal osteoporotic women with and without vertebral fractures were randomly assigned to receive either a spinal orthosis (Thämert Osteo-Med) for 6 months or to a waiting list control. The following outcome measures were assessed at baseline and at 3- and 6-months follow-up: postural sway, maximum isometric voluntary force of the back extensors and quadriceps femoris, physical activity (IPAQ), fall-related self-efficacy (FES-I), health-related quality of life (QUALEFFO-41) and perceived pain.

RESULTS: For the orthosis group, repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant increase in trunk extensors muscle strength at 3- and 6-months follow-up and self-perceived pain reduction within the 5th month of evaluation in comparison to the control group. The remaining parameters showed non-significant changes while wearing the orthosis.

CONCLUSIONS: The application of the orthosis introduces neuromuscular trunk strength improvement in conjunction with pain reduction in women with spinal osteoporosis. Future research should evaluate long-term effects on habitual physical activity, fall-related fracture risk and health-related quality of life.