Introduction: In the human body the spine serves mainly for stability and a correct/erect posture. It consists of 33-34 vertebra and has an S-shaped physiological curvature. This shape aids in sustaining the spine's rigid support. If the spine is deformed in three planes at the same time, the condition is called scoliosis. Scoliosis its determined by 3 different categories: time, cause and place of occurrence. Idiopathic scoliosis, for which the cause is unknown, is prevalent. The condition can be diagnosed using an Adams Test and measured using a device called Scoliometer, which is always accompanied by x-ray images. This device is used for a rough estimation of the Cobb angle, which is more accurately measured with the help of x-rays. Scoliosis can be treated conservatively or operatively, depending on the extent of the deformity. Conservative or orthosis treatment is applied to children whose spine has not yet finished its ossification process. One type of orthosis (brace) is called SpineCor and consists of rubber bands. Application of the rubber bands varies based on the type and size of the deformity. Purpose: The purpose of this diploma thesis is to figure out whether an orthosis (brace) can positively influence the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, with the intention of stopping or improving the deformity. Far better results are expected after treatment with the SpineCor brace. Methods: In this thesis a descriptive method of research was used. The literature used is both domestic and foreign in origin. It was selected due to the following key words: adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, treatment, SpineCor orthosis, treatment efficiency. The literature used in this thesis was published between 2001 and 2016, and is linked to the main topic of this thesis. Results: The SpineCor orthosis positively affects the treatment of scoliosis. Most children whose spine has not yet developed have reported either an improvement or a stabilization of the condition. Some reported a deterioration or necessary surgery, but only a very small percentage of patients. Results were better in patients who had a smaller initial deformity. The brace had to be worn at least 20 hours a day. Further analysis shows that the deformity can be improved or stabilized within 2 years of treatment with the SpineCor brace. Discussion and conclusion: The SpineCor orthosis/brace positively affects the treatment of spinal deformity, based on the specific criteria used to confirm improvement. An improvement of at least 5 degrees and a stabilized spine translates into a successful result of the treatment. Some authors reached better results than others, which is mainly due to each person being slightly different. Results can also vary depending on how physically active the patients were during treatment, how long the brace was worn, the sheer magnitude of the deformity, etc. These results would most likely be more optimal if a greater number of similar studies with a greater population had been conducted. Nevertheless, the studies show a relative improvement in results through the use of this orthosis. Therefore, it can be confirmed that these braces are not harmful and are rightfully recommended to patients suffering from scoliosis, and that said braces result in a correction and stabilization of the spine.
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