Effects of asymmetric loading on lateral spinal curvature in young adults with scoliosis: A preliminary study.

A subject-specific optimal loading configuration was determined using a programming model. The results suggest that the application of a properly controlled asymmetric load carriage might be possible for reducing scoliotic spinal curvature. Further study of the long-term effects of subject-specific optimal asymmetric load carriage on scoliotic spinal curvatures is warranted. Clinical relevance Short-term reduction of scoliotic spinal curvatures under asymmetric load carriage was demonstrated. Thoracic curvatures could be reduced when asymmetric loading was applied on the ipsilateral shoulder relative to the scoliotic apex. Multiobjective programming was applied to determine the optimal weight of asymmetric load for participant with scoliosis.