Scoliosis braces have come a long way. Part one of a series will explore how and when these braces are used.
What Type of Scoliosis Braces Are There?
What type of scoliosis braces are there? According to the site Spine-Health, there are several types of scoliosis bracing for adults and children, here is information on the first two:
“1. Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral-Orthosis (TLSO) The most common form of a TLSO brace is called the “Boston brace,” and it may be referred to as an “underarm” brace. This brace is fitted to the child’s body and custom molded from plastic. It works by applying three-point pressure to the curvature to prevent its progression. It can be worn under clothing and is typically not noticeable. The TLSO brace is usually worn 23 hours a day, and it can be taken off to swim, play sports, or participate in gym class during the day. This type of brace is usually prescribed for curves in the lumbar or thoraco-lumbar part of the spine.
2. Cervico-Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral-Orthosis (known as a Milwaukee brace) The Milwaukee brace is similar to the TLSO described above, but also includes a neck ring held in place by vertical bars attached to the body of the brace.It is usually worn 23 hours a day, and can be taken off to swim, play sports or participate in gym class during the day. This type of brace is often prescribed for curves in the thoracic spine. [READ SOURCE ARTICLE]
When Do You Need Treatment for Scoliosis?
When do you need treatment for scoliosis? Some forms of scoliosis do not require any treatment except time. Juvenile scoliosis will often correct itself as the patient literally grows out of their spinal curvature. However, when the curvature is at 20% or greater, or if the condition is going to get worse and not better, then other forms of scoliosis treatment must be considered including bracing and even surgery.
Surgery for scoliosis is in only very rare cases, such as if the curvature is getting worse, or if it is at a high level of curvature. As a rule, scoliosis is usually either treated by observation, or by options such as bracing. Your doctor should go over all of your scoliosis treatment options.
So remember, while scoliosis doesn’t have a cure, there are ways to treat it. So, when you have been diagnosed, then go over treatment options. Then you’ll know whether scoliosis bracing is right to you.
For more information on scoliosis bracing, be sure to read part two as well.
Pivonka Family Chiropractic
1355 S Higley Rd #102
Gilbert, AZ 85296
(480) 892-0022
Scoliosis Bracing Options
