[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.