Do you need a scoliosis brace? There are several reasons one may be prescribed.
Soft Scoliosis Bracing and Spinal Curvature
Another factor that the doctor considers if a back brace is needed is the degree of the curve. Once the doctor sees one or all of the following, then the adolescent is a perfect candidate for scoliosis bracing:
- if the curve has a moderate size (between 20 and 40 degrees) and it’s progressive.
- if it’s a progressive curve meaning the curve grows by as much as five degrees.
- if the curve is more than 30 degrees when initially diagnosed and there’s expected of a lot more growing
- other factors such as other medical conditions and family history are also considered
What are The Different Types of Scoliosis Braces?
There are many types of scoliosis braces available on the market today. These types have different features and purposes. If some braces are treating the body like statues such that these are made to keep your body in place like a body cast, some braces are made to understand the dynamics of a human body and its need to move around.
Basically, there are two main categories for the types of scoliosis braces:
Static (Hard) Scoliosis Brace
As mentioned earlier, static braces are made to hold the body to keep it in its normal position. This way scoliosis can be prevented from developing into a larger curve. It is also called the hard or rigid brace and is presently the conventional type of brace used in the US to aid curvatures in scoliosis that have already progressed to at least 25 degrees.
The hard plastic brace is molded from a tough plastic material. It is intended to act like a body cast. In effect, the spine becomes immobilize. It is believed that if the spine’s bones are prevented from moving, the deformation of the spine is prevented, thus, stopping the progression of the curve.
However, if a certain part of the body becomes immobilize, one can develop muscle atrophy. Muscle atrophy is the loss of muscle tissues due to lack of physical movement. Aside from this issue, a rigid brace does not consider the other significant issues of having scoliosis like the imbalance of muscles.
A brace may not be right for everyone. Consult your doctor and see if you need a scoliosis brace.
Pivonka Family Chiropractic
1355 S Higley Rd #102
Gilbert, AZ 85296
(480) 892-0022
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