Active bodysuits for adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS)

Abstract

Adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) patients often experience progressive lower back pain, deformity, and sagittal imbalance. While bracing is the most common non-invasive treatment, prolonged use can lead to paraspinal muscle deconditioning and worsening symptoms. To address these limitations and the unique needs of older ADS patients, an active training bodywear was developed, combining passive and active corrective forces with an age-friendly design. A 3-month intervention study demonstrated significant improvements across all domains of the Brace Questionnaire, notably in vitality, emotional functioning, and physical functioning. The Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire also showed marked improvements in all health-related quality of life domains, particularly pain and mental health. Additionally, the mean Oswestry low back pain disability score decreased from 23.3% to 18.2%. The bodywear includes a vibrotactile feedback system that monitors sitting and standing postures, providing instant haptic feedback for suboptimal alignments. This helps users establish and maintain optimal posture. Post-intervention results revealed that most participants improved their posture and could maintain proper alignment with greater ease. The combination of active self-correction and passive bracing in the bodysuit represents an advancement in brace development. The invention is protected by US Patent (US-11931282-B2). The results have been shared in multiple publications, including the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Color Research and Application, IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, and Proceedings of ISERD International Conference. They were also presented at the International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics 2022 and featured at the Asia Summit on Global Health 2022. Additional disseminations, including a public seminar at the Asia Pacific Institute of Healthy Aging and a media feature on a local TV programme, have raised public awareness of this innovative solution for aging-related health issues, highlighting its potential to improve older adults' quality of life and engage the wider community.