Effects of two newly developed spinal orthoses on trunk muscle strength, posture, and quality-of-life in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis: a randomized trial.

Objectives: We conducted a prospective randomized study to evaluate the efficacy of two newly developed spinal orthoses in patients with vertebral fractures.

Design: We conducted a prospective, randomized, cross-over study to evaluate the efficacy of two newly developed spinal orthoses in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Measurements include trunk muscle strength, angle of kyphosis, body height, body sway, and parameters of quality-of-life such as pain, well-being, and limitations of daily living.

Effects of a new spinal orthosis on posture, trunk strength, and quality of life in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis: a randomized trial.

Objective: One fourth of women > or =50 yrs of age in the general population have one or more vertebral fractures. The orthotic treatment modality in the management of vertebral fractures caused by osteoporosis remains subjective because no objective data from clinical trials are available. The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of a newly developed spinal orthosis in patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

Effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on falls: a randomized controlled trial.

Specific receptors for vitamin D have been identified in human muscle tissue. Cross-sectional studies show that elderly persons with higher vitamin D serum levels have increased muscle strength and a lower number of falls. We hypothesized that vitamin D and calcium supplementation would improve musculoskeletal function and decrease falls.