The Potential Use of Axial Spinal Unloading in the Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Case Series

Abstract 

Chromy CA, Carey MT, Balgaard KG, Iaizzo PA. The potential use of axial spinal unloading in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a case series.

Objective

To assess potential benefits of axial spinal unloading (LTX 3000 Lumbar Rehabilitation System) over a brief 3-month period.

Design

Before-after pilot study.

Setting

University research laboratory.

Participants

Five adolescent girls with scoliosis.

Interventions

Three laboratory sessions: (1) initial baseline, (2) immediately after 3-month treatment period (axial unloading by using LTX 3000 for two 10-minute treatments daily), and (3) 1 month posttreatment.

Main Outcome Measures

Initial baseline postural data were obtained from 2 sets of radiographs (standing anteroposterior [AP] and lateral, sitting AP and lateral), back range of motion measurements, and numeric pain scales. The following were assessed: static postural changes; potential functional benefits; and therapeutic compliance.

Results

All subjects elicited reductions in lumbar Cobb angles immediately after 3 months of treatment; initial average scoliotic curves of 13.7° were reduced 42% to 8° (α=.05, P=.004). Additionally, such reductions were evident 1 month posttreatment; average original curves were reduced by 27%. Subjects’ range of motion and lumbar lengthening were not significantly altered by this therapeutic protocol. Reported subject compliance was high (95%).

Conclusions

The LTX 3000 is a potential adjunct therapy for the treatment of adolescent scoliosis. This therapy resulted in curvature reductions and was widely accepted by subjects that were compliant with self-administration.

Key Words: Rehabilitation, Scoliosis, Traction, Treatment effectiveness