Spinal Movement with Orthoses Using Fluoroscopy v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF SPINE ORTHOSES ON INTERVERTEBRAL RANGE OF MOVEMENT USING SPINAL FLUOROSCOPY: A PRELIMINARY STUDY
IRAS ID
337218
Contact name
Rebecca Hemming
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Spinal braces are used routinely to prevent spine movement following trauma (e.g. spinal fractures). Current work evaluating the impact of spine braces on individual spine bone (vertebra) movement has been limited to imaging bones during static postures (e.g. x-ray images, MRI scans) rather than during movement. This study will, for the first time, assess to what extent braces limit the movement of each vertebra in the lower back and neck during bending.
Quantitative fluoroscopy is a novel, innovative technology that works in a similar way to x-rays, with much lower and safer radiation doses, to take images of the spine during normal movements (such as bending). This is a substantial breakthrough as it can enable researchers and clinicians to more accurately understand how movement at each vertebra changes when the spine moves. This has clear benefit for understanding when non-surgical vs surgical approaches should be applied to optimise patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary NHS costs.
This preliminary study on 30 healthy individuals will compare vertebral movement with and without lower back and neck braces in-situ, which are usually used to treat patients with spinal fractures.We aim to establish if there is a difference in movement of the vertebra during controlled bending when healthy individuals perform the movement with and without lower back and neck braces. Individuals will be imaged 4 times: during controlled bending; with and without either a lower back or neck brace in-situ.
Two Patient and Public Involvement meetings will be undertaken (with specialist spinal clinicians and patients) where study development, research design, communication of the research and future plans will be discussed.
This preliminary work will provide novel insights into spinal brace effectiveness to inform spinal surgeons and clinicians involved in the management of spinal trauma care.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
25/WA/0122
Date of REC Opinion
24 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion