Comparing standard and 3D braces for treating idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents

3D Designed Boston Brace Versus Standard Boston Brace in Halting Progression in Idiopathic Scoliosis: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Karolinska Institutet · NCT04805437

This study is testing whether a new 3D Boston brace works better than the standard brace for treating scoliosis in kids and teens aged 9-17.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment170 (estimated)
Ages9 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Linköping and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04805437 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed 3D designed Boston brace compared to the standard Boston brace for treating idiopathic scoliosis in skeletally immature adolescents. Participants aged 9-17 with a Cobb angle of 25-40 degrees will be randomly assigned to receive either type of brace. The study will monitor compliance using thermal sensors and assess outcomes such as curve severity, quality of life, and surgical rates through clinical and radiological follow-ups. The goal is to improve brace comfort and increase wearing time, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are skeletally immature adolescents aged 9-17 with idiopathic scoliosis and a Cobb angle between 25-40 degrees.

Not a fit: Patients with non-idiopathic scoliosis or those who have previously undergone spine surgery will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved brace comfort and compliance, resulting in better management of idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that innovative brace designs can improve compliance and outcomes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Cobb 25-40 degrees
* Skeletally immature, Sanders score of 6 or less and Risser 2 or less.
* Menarche status maximum one year in females
* Aged 9-17 years
* No previous brace treatment or surgery for scoliosis
* Apex of the primary curve at T7 or caudal

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non-idiopathic scoliosis (i.e. neuromuscular, syndromic or congenital scoliosis)
* Previous spine surgery

Where this trial is running

Linköping and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Idiopathic ScoliosisIdiopathic scoliosisRandomized controlled trialBraceOrthosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.