Scoliosis

There are two philosophies for Brace treatment for Scoliosis. The more traditional approach is a low profile thin plastic brace to be worn under the clothes 23 hours per day everyday until the child’s spine is mature. In today’s modern culture it has become increasingly more difficult for young adolescent children to be compliant with this protocol. In the last 15 years there have been many changes in the treatment of Scoliosis in an attempt to improve compliance. Night time bending braces have become more common. These brace are worn only at nighttime while the child sleeps. They work with hypercorrection of the curve through bending, for 8 – 10 hours per night. Most all the braces are made of lightweight and thin plastics from a mold of the patient with the benefits of CAD/CAM design.

We at SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. remain objective and utilize all types of braces. We use the brace that is best for each individual case and fits with in the guidelines of the physician treating the patient. We use Boston Braces and Charleston Braces, Providence Braces as well as individually designed systems in clinical settings developed within the SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. clinics.

Treatment usually lasts until the child’s spine is mature enough for the curve not to advance. Average treatment times are between 2-3 years depending on the age of discovery.

How do I know if my child has Scoliosis? Look for the warning signs.

• They always stand leaning to the same side.
• Shoulder asymmetry
• Hips unlevel
• Rib hump in the upper back
• Unequal spacing between the side of the trunk and the arms

How to check

Sit down in a chair and place the child in front of you facing their back. Have them bend forward with there arms hanging down. Look carefully to observe any asymmetries or the appearance of a bump on one side or both.