Modified ASH Brace: A Novel Approach to Kyphoscoliotic Curvature Correction

Sushree Sangita Nayak

Abstract: The Modified ASH (Adjustable Spinal Hypercorrective) Brace introduces a novel approach to managing kyphoscoliosis, a spinal condition characterized by combined lateral (scoliotic) and forward (kyphotic) curvatures, by leveraging a concurrent parallelogram framework to apply multi-directional corrective forces. Pre- and post-fitment data demonstrate the brace?s ability to reduce obliquity curvature, evidenced by altered spinal area distribution (e.g., left side increasing from 56 cm? to 77 cm?, right side decreasing from 71 cm? to 62 cm?) and decreased pressures (maximum pressure reduced from 645 g/cm? to 573 g/cm? bilaterally; average pressure from 427 g/cm? to 324 g/cm? on the left and 365 g/cm? to 248 g/cm? on the right). These changes indicate improved spinal alignment and biomechanical balance, particularly in mild to moderate cases. However, the brace?s effectiveness is limited when the concurrent angle (?) exceeds 45?, restricting its utility in severe deformities. Plantar pressure analysis reveals significant variability in force distribution, suggesting inconsistent weight-bearing patterns possibly due to compensatory mechanisms or patient-specific biomechanics. While the Modified ASH Brace shows promise as a non-invasive treatment, addressing variability in force distribution through advanced design features, such as dynamic force modulation or real-time pressure monitoring, is critical. Integration with complementary therapies, such as the Schroth method, may further enhance outcomes, particularly for complex cases, warranting further research to optimize clinical efficacy across a broader range of severities.

Keywords: kyphoscoliosis management, spinal brace correction, biomechanical alignment, pressure distribution variability, non-invasive spinal therapy