Introduction: The clinical effectiveness of spinal bracing for the conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is still not fully understood. Cohort studies on clinical effectiveness fail to adequately measure and control for confounding variables including spine flexibility, curve type, magnitude and maturity, distribution of corrective forces and compliance. This paper presents intermediate findings from a longitudinal study to objectively measure brace wear patterns and compliance in users of custom fitted TLSOs in the UK. Braces are fitted with data logging devices to measure temperature and humidity at the skin/brace interface. Previously reported measures of compliance have been in adolescents wearing Boston Braces using questionnaires, strap tension, interface pressure and skin temperature. They have shown compliance reported by the user can significantly over estimate actual compliance.

Methods and results: 20 patients are being studied over 18 months. TLSOs are fitted with data logging devices to measure temperature and humidity at the skin/brace interface. They are discrete sensors inserted into a pocket formed on the posterior of the brace. Measurements are recorded at 16 minute intervals and data downloaded every three to four months. Results clearly demonstrate compliance and daily wear routines. Temperature and humidity at the skin/brace interface during periods of wear are 35°C and > 80%RH respectively. Compliance ranges from 60–98%. Users who stick rigidly to their regime only remove their brace in the evening. Where poorer compliance is evident, the brace is worn sporadically during the day and evening, and worn full time at night.

Conclusion: Measurement of temperature and humidity at the skin/brace interface clearly demonstrates compliance and daily wear routines. Compliance varies from 60–98%. Where poor compliance is an issue it is intended to re-interview these individuals and obtain more detailed information about the reasons why they failed to use the brace.