EFFECTIVENESS OF BRACING IN ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS (AIS): A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/1811-2471.2025.v.i3.15550Keywords:
prosthetics and orthotics, Chêneau brace, rehabilitation, adolescent idiopathic scoliosisAbstract
SUMMARY. The aim – to conduct a systematic review of the evidence base regarding the effectiveness of bracing therapy in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), with a focus on slowing progression and the potential for curve reduction.
Material and Methods. A systematic review and comparative analysis of scientific publications and literature over the past five years was conducted using the PubMed database. The analysis focused on studies in the fields of prosthetics and orthotics, rehabilitation, and orthopedics that investigated the efficacy of bracing in AIS patients. Publications were included if they contained data on curve progression dynamics, surgical intervention rates, brace wear duration and protocols, and clinical or radiological treatment outcomes. Key inclusion criteria were clearly defined AIS populations, the use of conservative treatment involving bracing, and the presence of controlled or prospective data.
Results. The review confirmed that brace treatment – particularly with the Chêneau brace – is the most effective conservative intervention for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. It has been shown to significantly slow or even halt the progression of spinal curvature. Treatment success is strongly influenced by brace wear compliance, individual customization, and patient adherence. Other methods, such as physiotherapy, electrical stimulation, or the use of soft or night-time braces, were found to be considerably less effective compared to rigid, custom-made orthoses. The psychosocial impact of long-term brace use on adolescents was also noted as a significant factor affecting quality of life and remains a priority for further research.
Conclusions. Chêneau bracing represents the most evidence-based and effective conservative treatment for AIS to date. Further research in this field may optimize bracing strategies, minimize complications, reduce the need for surgical intervention, and contribute to the development of clear clinical protocols for the non-operative management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
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