Evaluating the best bracing methods for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Official title: Determining the Best Indications for Initiating Brace Treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT04117334 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing the best ways to use braces for teenagers with scoliosis to see how they can help prevent worsening of the curve while keeping costs and discomfort low.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 10 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 700 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Hong Kong and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2016 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 6, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT04117334 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis who are still growing and prescribed bracing.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with scoliosis not classified as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis or those unable to comply with follow-up will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the cost-effectiveness of bracing protocols for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). It aims to determine the optimal timing for initiating brace treatment to prevent curve progression while minimizing discomfort and resource use. The study will utilize health-related quality of life assessments and cost analyses to evaluate the impact of bracing on patients. By identifying the best indications for bracing, the findings could enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective and cost-efficient treatment strategies for adolescents with scoliosis.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success in evaluating bracing effectiveness, but this specific cost-effectiveness approach is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who are diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and are seen in the first setting with remaining growth potential (Risser 0-2), and are prescribed with either underarm (Boston) or Milwaukee bracing Exclusion Criteria: * Patients whose diagnosis is not adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, unable to comply with study follow-up and refused consent for study
Where it's running
-
Duchess of Kent Children's Hospital
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting -
Jason Pui Yin Cheung
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jason Cheung, MBBS, MS — Hku/ha
- Study coordinator: Jason Cheung, MBBS, MS
- Email: cheungjp@hku.hk
- Phone: (852)22554581
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Comfort Tote to help recovery after scoliosis surgery in teens
This study tests whether a therapeutic Comfort Tote can reduce pain and anxiety after surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
-
Erector spinae plane block to reduce post-operative pain after posterior spinal fusion in children
This will try giving an erector spinae plane block with ropivacaine to see if it reduces pain and the need for opioid pain medicine after posterior spinal fusion in children with adolescent idiopathic or neuromuscular scoliosis.
-
MRI-guided dynamic support for correcting adolescent scoliosis
This pilot tests whether an MRI-compatible air-padded support with programmable pneumatic control can quickly reduce spinal curvature in 10–16-year-olds with mild to moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
-
Detecting scoliosis progression without X-rays using Momentum Spine app
This study tests whether the Momentum Spine app can reliably detect scoliosis progression in 8-18 year olds without radiographs and guide follow-up care.
-
Examining how spinal manipulation affects motor control in adolescents with scoliosis
This study is testing how spinal manipulation affects movement control in teenagers with scoliosis to see if it helps them improve their balance and muscle function.
-
Using a 3D camera to assess scoliosis in adolescents
This study is testing a new way to check the spine of teenagers with scoliosis using a special 3D camera to see if it’s better and safer than traditional X-rays.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.