The Intelligent Brace: A Compliance Monitoring System for Scoliosis

The goal of this project is to provide real-time monitoring and data logging to help both the patient and clinician determine if and when a scoliosis brace is being worn effectively. Despite widespread use of bracing for treatment of scoliosis, its efficacy remains unproven. Studies have indicated that user compliance is a large factor in the efficacy of scoliosis brace treatment. Two factors comprise wear compliance: (1) the quantity of wear (i.e. does the actual wear time meet the prescribed wear time?), and (2) the quality of wear (i.e. is the fit as tight as prescribed?). Without both of these criteria being met, the effectiveness of the brace treatment is compromised. The Intelligent Brace for Scoliosis utilizes advanced Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology to measure the pressure at clinically important sites within the brace to determine both the quality and quantity of fit. With the Intelligent Brace, the patient receives immediate feedback if the brace is improperly adjusted, allowing them to obtain an optimal fit and maximum benefit from the brace. The daily wear time at the prescribed fit is logged and available to the clinician, enabling them to ensure that the orthotic prescription is being followed and intervene when necessary.