If your child has scoliosis, it’s important to treat it early in their development to ensure the proper growth and alignment of their spine. If not, they run the risk of visible deformity, discomfort, pain, lung or heart issues, and damage to joints throughout their spine.
Using a custom back brace, TLSO, is an effective way of preventing such symptoms of untreated scoliosis by correcting the spine as your child grows. Here are some answers to common questions regarding back braces for children’s development.
Do back braces work for scoliosis?
Treating children with scoliosis is case-by-case, as it depends on your child’s stage of development and the degree of their spine curvature. For example, back bracing typically isn’t effective for treating a curve above 40 degrees, and won’t be necessary for a curve under 20 degrees. In any case where a back brace would be effective in treating scoliosis, a custom brace will be fit to your child by your orthotist and may be adjusted or replaced as he or she grows during treatment.
How long does it take to fix scoliosis with a back brace?
A back brace could be required for the whole duration of your child’s development. It all depends on his or her particular case of scoliosis and overall health context, as well as consistent use of the custom orthosis.
Is a brace required for sleeping?
Some scoliosis braces are only worn at night. However, depending on the style of the brace, the patient will be required to follow a wearing schedule that usually results in wearing the orthosis for 23 hours/day after the initial adjustment period.
Is it too late for adults to wear a brace for scoliosis?
Bracing for scoliosis is best while your child is growing to capture the most correction and decrease the chance for surgical intervention. Adults with scoliosis (usually other types besides the idiopathic scoliosis that children tend to have) can benefit from bracing if surgery is not an option, to help with posture and breathing issues.
Pediatric bracing corrects the spinal curve and prevents it from getting worse. Adult bracing promotes better posture and resists further deterioration.
Custom-Crafted Bracing with Pongratz
We can help you help your child now, while it matters most! Proactively treating scoliosis at a young age will give your child the greatest advantage in treating their condition and will set them up for optimal health and stability in their body for the rest of their life.
Feel free to contact us today for a consultation and we’ll begin your child’s journey to recovery!
