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There are many types of “scoliosis braces” or “correction braces” on the market, which may confuse patients. Your doctor will decide the appropriate brace according to the curve location and shape. Braces that are used for similar curves can further differ according to their material and production processes. This also effects the price.
The most important aspect is to use a brace that effectively corrects the curve. The type of the brace does not directly effect the results. Generally, the ones that can be hidden under dresses are more acceptable among children.
In general, the most preferred braces are: thoraco-lumbo-sacral-orthosis (TLSO), Milwaukee, Boston, and Rigo-Weiss-Cheneau-Gensingen. Wilmington and Lyon braces are used as well. For kyphosis, Milwaukee type braces are generally preferred.
Braces are not like prescribed drugs that you can buy from any pharmacy. The brace must be tailored to achieve the best fit and best correction. Therefore, for a brace to be effective, the doctor, orthosis specialist, parents and child should cooperate:
- The doctor decides if bracing is necessary and suitable
- Parents support the decision
- Children accept and comply with the decision
- The orthosis specialist uses his or her expertise to fit the brace to the patient
The brace, its pressure points and amount, and the curve correction rate should be radiographically assessed before the child starts using it. The ideal situation is to achieve a 50 percent in-brace correction.
It is difficult and cumbersome to wear a brace, and it requires patience. However, when properly produced and used with high compliance, the results are very satisfactory.