Thoracolumbar Corsets Alter Breathing Pattern in Normal Individuals

Thoracolumbar corsets are used to manage stable uncomplicated injuries of the spine. The effects of these corsets on breathing pattern either in normal individuals or in patients with spinal injuries are not known. This study determined the effects of wearing a thoracolumbar corset on breathing patterns. Eight healthy, young, non-smoking women students participated by fully informed voluntary consent. Selected ventilatory parameters were monitored in supine and sitting positions immediately before and after wearing the corset, after wearing the corset for 1 h and immediately after removal of the corset. Ventilatory variables were monitored by connecting the facemask to the Cortex MetaMax (Biophysik GmgH) data collection system. Normalized data were subjected to MANOVA (P<0.05). Wearing the corset for 1 h significantly decreased tidal volume (Vt) by 24% and increased breathing frequency (Fb) by 19% in the sitting compared to the control condition. Participants who had been wearing the corset for 1 h had significantly lower Vt in the supine position compared to the sitting position. We conclude that when a corset is worn for at least 1 h, Vt and Fb change to maintain the minute ventilation. More research is indicated to determine the effects of wearing a corset for longer than 1 h on pulmonary variables in patients.