Development of Garments with Elastic Straps and Pressure Applicator (GESPA) and “GVcorrect” App to Follow the Changes in Lower-Extremity Alignment (Genu Valgum)-A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: There are non-invasive methods of correcting genu valgum (GV), but to date, there is no method to evaluate mechanotherapeutic intervention that does not restrict child's natural movements while the process is on-going so that timely decisions could be made on effectiveness of intervention. The aim of study was to develop and assess the comfortability of garments with elastic straps and pressure applicator (GESPA) and the reliability and user-friendliness of “GVcorrect” app, which aims to catch the elastic straps' pressure level (mN). Methods: 6 children (5-7 y) with intermalleolar distance ≥5 cm wore GESPA daily for 3 months. Anthropometrical and goniometrical measurements were done according to standard technique; tone and biomechanical parameters of skeletal muscles determined with MyotonPRO; feedback about GESPA and “GVcorrect” collected via questionnaire. Results: Based on feedback from children and parents, new, more comfortable and user-friendly GESPA were designed; several updates were made to “GVcorrect” app; new goals were set for the next phase of the study. Conclusions: GESPA and the “GVcorrect” app serve their purpose, but there are still a number of important limitations that need to be removed before the product can be marketed. The study continues with product development until a medical device certificate is obtained.