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Measurement of forces exerted in the correction of idiopathic scoliosis using three-component dynamometers

The design of compact sensitive measuring units, their incorporation into the Milwaukee brace and the associated instrumentation are discussed

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Abstract

Idiopathic scoliosis is a progressive lateral curvature of the spine usually appearing during early adolescence. It may result in severe deformity with complications that profoundly affect the socio-economic future of the patient. The Milwaukee brace, frequently used in nonsurgical ambulatory treatment of scoliosis, seems to correct the disease by exerting traction and local pressure on the spine. Its lower end girdles the pelvis and the upper end bears on the occiput and mandible. In order to define precisely how the Milwaukee brace acts, and establish rational criteria for its use, a program has been undertaken to measure the forces exerted by the brace during treatment.

In this paper, measurement by two three-component dynamometers of the forces the brace exerts on the occiput and mandible is described. The design of compact, sensitive measuring units, their incorporation into the brace and the associated instrumentation are discussed. A brief description of results obtained in an initial study of four patients is given.

The dynamometers developed are suitable for use in force measurement in a wide range of orthotic and prosthetic appliances.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Materials Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago Circle, Chicago, Ill.

    A. B. Schultz (Associate Professor)

  2. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Illinois at the Medical Center, Chicago, Ill.

    J. O. Galante (Assistant Professor)

Authors
  1. A. B. Schultz
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  2. J. O. Galante
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Schultz, A.B., Galante, J.O. Measurement of forces exerted in the correction of idiopathic scoliosis using three-component dynamometers. Experimental Mechanics 9, 419–423 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02327008

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02327008

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