Development of a flexible 3D-printed scoliosis brace

Rethinking Rigidity: Development of a 3D-Printed Scoliosis Brace With Varying Flexibility

Not applicable Interventional Baylor College of Medicine · NCT06785207

This study is testing a new 3D-printed scoliosis brace for kids and teens to see if it’s more comfortable and helps them stick to their treatment better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment5 (estimated)
Ages8 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorBaylor College of Medicine Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Houston, Texas and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06785207 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to improve the comfort and adherence of scoliosis treatment by developing a 3D-printed brace with varying flexibility. Participants aged 8-18 with idiopathic scoliosis will receive a custom brace that mirrors their current one in shape but is made using 3D printing technology. The process involves scanning the patient's body, modifying the design, and fabricating the brace without additional imaging. Patient feedback will be collected to assess the comfort and effectiveness of the new brace design.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 8-18 diagnosed with juvenile or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis who currently wear a traditional brace.

Not a fit: Patients with scoliosis outside the specified Cobb angle range or those who do not currently wear a brace may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance brace comfort and improve adherence to treatment for adolescents with scoliosis.

How similar studies have performed: While traditional bracing methods have been established, the use of 3D printing for scoliosis braces is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Have a diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic scoliosis or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
2. Have a Cobb angle between 20-40 degrees
3. Are between ages 8-18
4. Present as Risser 2+ on x-ray
5. Currently wear a traditionally fabricated scoliosis brace
6. Have good brace adherence in current brace (self-reported to be 75% of prescribed time)
7. Be an established patient of Align Clinic and Dr. Timothy Borden
8. Speak English (survey and semi-structured interview will only be available in English)
9. Assent and receive parental consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have a diagnosis other than juvenile idiopathic scoliosis or adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
2. Have a Cobb angle outside the range of 20-40 degrees
3. Present as Risser 0 or 1
4. Do not currently wear a traditionally fabricated scoliosis brace
5. Have poor adherence in their current brace
6. Do not speak English
7. Are not willing participate in the study

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas 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 Scoliosis Idiopathic Adolescent Treatment3D-printed scoliosis bracescoliosis bracescoliosis bracing3D-printing
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.