Clinical Research Directory

Effects of Hatha Yoga and Reformer Pilates on Hyperkyphosis

The vertebral column is an S-shaped structure that carries the body weight and transmits it to the feet. Kyphosis, a natural curvature of the spine, can increase with poor posture and muscle weakness, leading to postural kyphosis. This condition results in forward head positioning, rounded shoulders, and scapular winging, causing back pain, poor posture, balance issues, and respiratory difficulties. With technological advances, poor posture habits have become more common, especially in adolescents. Kyphosis can also affect balance, walking speed, and increase the risk of falls in older adults. Exercises like Hatha yoga and reformer Pilates are effective methods for improving posture, muscle strength, and quality of life. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of Hatha yoga and reformer Pilates exercises on posture, pain, balance, quality of life, body image, and respiratory function in individuals with hyperkyphosis.

Development and Validation of MPF to Prevent and Mitigate Postural Hyperkyphosis in Postmenopausal Women

Postural hyperkyphosis is common in postmenopausal women and leads to spinal dysfunction, pain, impaired balance, and increased fall risk. This study aims to develop and validate a multimodal physiotherapy framework to prevent and manage hyperkyphosis in this population. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted at Allied Hospital with 72 postmenopausal women aged 40-75 years, divided into intervention (multimodal physiotherapy with conventional care) and control (conventional care only) groups.

Efficacy of Spinal Orthoses on Mobility in Older Adults With Hyperkyphosis

This study investigates whether wearing specific back braces (spinal orthoses) can improve movement and physical function in older adults (60 years and older) with hyperkyphosis, a forward curvature of the upper spine. By testing two types of braces, the study seeks to find effective ways to manage hyperkyphosis and enhance mobility, independence, and quality of life in this population. Study Purpose The purpose is to evaluate the impact of two types of thoracic spinal orthoses on functional mobility, which includes walking, muscle function, and overall physical activity. This information will help healthcare providers better understand how braces can be used to manage hyperkyphosis and improve daily functioning for older adults. Who Can Participate? The study will include adults aged 60 or older who have been diagnosed with hyperkyphosis. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1. Group 1: Participants will use the Triple-Adjustable Posture Corrector (TAPC), a brace designed to improve posture and reduce kyphosis. 2. Group 2: Participants will use the Generation Dynamic Osteoporosis Brace (G-DOB), another type of spinal brace targeting posture and mobility. 3. Control Group: Participants will not wear any brace. How the Study Works The study will run for 16 weeks. Participants in the brace groups will wear their assigned braces throughout the day, except during specific activities like bathing, sleeping, and swimming. No other changes to their daily routines will be required. At the start and end of the study, participants will undergo assessments to measure their physical function and mobility. These assessments will include: * Gait analysis: Evaluates walking patterns using advanced 3D motion technology. * Muscle strength and joint function testing: Measures how well muscles and joints are working using isokinetic dynamometry. * Muscle activity recording: Tracks how muscles respond during movement using surface electromyography (EMG). * Physical activity monitoring: Captures activity levels using accelerometers, which are small devices that track movement. Why Is This Study Important? Hyperkyphosis can lead to challenges in daily life, such as difficulty walking, decreased balance, pain, and a higher risk of falls. While physical therapy and exercise are common treatments, many older adults need additional support to manage the condition. Spinal orthoses may offer a practical, non-invasive option to improve posture, reduce symptoms, and increase physical activity. By comparing the effects of these two braces, the study aims to: 1. Determine whether these orthoses improve functional mobility, such as walking and muscle performance. 2. Provide evidence to guide healthcare professionals in using braces to treat hyperkyphosis. 3. Develop a standardized approach for incorporating orthoses into the care of older adults with this condition. Benefits for Participants While the study focuses on research, participants may also experience direct benefits, such as: * Improved posture and comfort while moving. * Increased awareness of their physical health and function. * Access to state-of-the-art assessments and expert support throughout the study. How Will Results Be Used? The findings will inform healthcare providers about the potential benefits of using spinal braces for older adults with hyperkyphosis. If successful, this research could lead to: * Better treatment plans for patients. * Increased availability of braces tailored for older adults. * Improved quality of life for people living with hyperkyphosis. Key Takeaways for Patients and Families * Hyperkyphosis is a manageable condition, and this study explores a promising new way to support mobility and independence. * Participation involves wearing a brace during regular daily activities and attending two comprehensive evaluations. * The study is safe, non-invasive, and designed to minimize disruptions to daily life. This research offers an exciting opportunity to improve care for older adults with hyperkyphosis. By understanding how braces affect movement and strength, healthcare providers can develop better tools and strategies to support aging populations. Families and caregivers can also benefit from knowing there are new, evidence-based options to help their loved ones stay active and independent.

Post-Market Clinical Follow-Up Study on the Safety and Performance of Ennovate® Complex

Multicenter, multinational Post-Market Clinical Follow-Up (PMCF) study on the safety and performance of Ennovate® Complex - A prospective, pure data collection of all Ennovate® scoliosis patients in selected centers (not interventional, multicentric)

Relationship Between Thoracic Hyperkyphosis and Fall Risk in Women with Fragility Vertebral Fractures

Multiple vertebral fragility fractures, one of the main complications of osteoporosis, are frequently associated with thoracic hyperkyphosis, which in turn leads to significant postural alterations. These biomechanical changes may increase fall risk, posing a critical clinical issue for elderly patients. However, the results of studies investigating the association between hyperkyphosis and fall risk are conflicting, highlighting the need for further research. This study aims to explore the correlation between the severity of thoracic kyphotic curvature and fall risk in patients with multiple fragility fractures undergoing osteoporosis treatment. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the role of physiotherapy in improving patients' functional and postural outcomes. A retrospective observational study was conducted, supplemented by a narrative literature review to contextualize the findings. Forty patients undergoing treatment at the Functional Recovery and Rehabilitation Unit (UOC) of P. Giaccone University Hospital in Palermo were enrolled and followed up via biannual phone interviews. Data were collected between May 2023 and May 2024, with a longitudinal assessment of outcomes from T0 (baseline) to T1 (12 months). The severity of the kyphotic curve was quantified using the Cobb method, while fall risk was assessed through the Berg Balance Scale. Participation in physiotherapy programs was analyzed to evaluate their impact on clinical and functional outcomes.

Diaphragmatic Myofascial Release for Hyperkyphotic Subjects

kyphotic subjects have respiratory disturbances due to weakening of the diaphragm, responsible for inhalation, which lead to abnormalities in respiratory mechanics and abnormal gas exchange, leading to respiratory complications. Myofascial release of the diaphragm is an intervention intended to indirectly stretch the diaphragm muscle fibers to reduce muscle tension, normalize fiber length, and promote the efficiency of muscle contraction. Although diaphragm myofascial release has been used in clinical practice, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the current study is the first research investigating the effect of diaphragmatic myofascial release on lung function, chest mobility and kyphotic curve in hyperkyphotic subjects.

Validation of Clinical Assessment of Spinal Stiffness

This study aims to validate and verify the reliability of the clinical measures used in the daily routine by doctors and therapists that allow assessing the spinal stiffness in all spatial planes. The secondary objective is the verification of the diagnostic accuracy of the most reliable tests in identifying the subjects at risk of failure, using as a radiographic standard the examinations performed by the patients during the treatment (data retrieved retrospectively) using as a control group those patients who did not obtain a correction of the spine curvature.