The Effect of Two Types of Thoracolumbosacral Braces on Electromyography Activity of Selected Muscles in Patients with Kyphosis during Walking

The relationship between the use of braces and gait parameters in people with kyphosis has been not well understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two types of thoracolumbosacral braces on erector spinae, and gluteus medius muscles activities in individuals with kyphosis during walking.

Fifteen males with kyphosis volunteered to participate in the present study. All participants were right footed. Each participant performed three walking trials in each of the three brace conditions including without brace, with alarm brace, and with simple brace. Muscle activities were recorded during walking at constant walk speed. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA test at the significant level of 0.05. All analyses were performed using the SPSS version 22.

There is no significant difference in electromyography activities of the lower limb muscles at the loading response and mid-stance phases (P>0.05). Also, results showed a significant difference during push-off phase for gastrocnemius medialis muscle (P<0.05).

The use of thoracolumbosacral braces reduced the electrical activity of the gastrocnemius medialis muscle during the push-off phase. These changes may lead to gait efficiency while using thoracolumbosacral braces.