Scoliosis brace design: influence of visual aesthetics on user acceptance and compliance

Abstract

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a common condition found in adolescents. A rigid brace is often prescribed as the treatment for this spinal deformity, which negatively affects user compliance due to the discomfort caused by the brace, and the psychological distress resulting from its appearance. However, the latter, which is the impact of visual aesthetics, has not been thoroughly studied for scoliosis braces. Therefore, a qualitative study with in-depth interviews has been carried out with 10 participants who have a Cobb angle of 20°-30° to determine the impact of visual aesthetics on user acceptance and compliance towards the brace. It is found that co-designing with patients on the aesthetic aspects of the surface design of the brace increases the level of user compliance and induces positive user perception. Therefore, aesthetic preferences need to be taken into consideration in the design process of braces. Practitioner Summary: The impact of visual aesthetics on user acceptance and compliance towards a rigid brace for scoliosis is investigated. The findings indicate that an aesthetically pleasing brace and the involvement of patients in the design process of the brace are important for increasing user compliance and addressing psychological issues during treatment.

The Use of a Dynamic Elastomeric Fabric Orthotic Intervention in Adolescents and Adults with Scoliosis

“…Rigid braces have been proven to be effective in reducing scoliosis progression [4], however there have been issues with compliance particularly from discomfort caused by the brace and psychological stress from the visual impact. Patient involvement in brace design and aesthetics have shown improved compliance [58], so the use of elastomeric fabrics will further enhance this patient based involvement and provide scoliosis suits which are more comfortable in both adolescents and adults alike thereby improving activities of daily life.…”

Quality of life of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients under brace treatment: a brief communication of literature review

“…Law et al [70] found that an aesthetically pleasing brace and the involvement of patients in the design process of the brace were important for increasing user compliance and also addressing psychological issues during treatment.…”

A comfort assessment of existing cervical orthoses

“…The use of co-design methods for orthoses to address both functional and aesthetic aspects is supported by other research and has been demonstrated to have an impact on user acceptance and compliance (Law et al 2016). The goal of the Head-Up project was to develop an orthosis specifically designed for individuals living with MND with neck muscle weakness to provide tailored support to the head whilst still permitting normal movement where possible.…”