FAQs
Is ScoliBrace really a custom brace?
Absolutely. Using the latest technology in 3D patient scanning, computer aided design (CAD), computer aided manufacture (CAM) and proprietary design algorithms, each patient fitted with a ScoliBrace receives a brace made specifically for them and their individual curve.
Who can be prescribed a ScoliBrace to treat their scoliosis?
The ScoliBrace has a versatile variety of designs for different curve types, which means there is a treatment option for most cases.
For children and adolescents:
- Infantile, juvenile and adolescent cases of idiopathic scoliosis
- Some cases of neuromuscular curves
- Curves up to 60° cobb angle*
For younger and older adults:
- Pre-existing scoliosis from adolescence.
- Treatment of cosmetic issues related to scoliosis
- Degenerative scoliosis (De novo scoliosis)
- Pain and/or reduction in function, e.g. inability to perform activities of daily living.
*There is evidence to suggest adolescent idiopathic curves up to 60 degrees can be effectively treated with bracing^. In some cases there may be a medical necessity to brace curves greater than 60°. A consultation with a scoliosis clinician to discuss this option is recommended.
^Reference – Negrini, et al (2011). Idiopathic scoliosis patients with curves more than 45 Cobb degrees refusing surgery can be effectively treated through bracing with curve improvements. The Spine Journal 11(5): 369-380
Who can be prescribed a KyphoBrace?
KyphoBrace is a specific brace for treating hyperkyphosis, Scheuermann’s kyphosis and poor posture. which means there is a treatment option for most cases.
- Scheuermann’s Kyphosis, Hyperkyphosis, Thoracolumbar Kyphosis and patients with anterior sagittal balance
- Kyphosis curves up to 85°.
How long do children need to wear a ScoliBrace?
In patients who haven’t finished growing, the ScoliBrace will generally need to be worn on a full-time or part-time basis (depending on the curve magnitude and other factors) until they have finished the bulk of their growth. A full-time protocol is about 21-23 hours per day. A part-time protocol is about 14-18 hours per day.
Will the spine straighten up with ScoliBrace?
Scoliosis is a progressive condition. ScoliBrace in children is always designed with correction in mind. However the size, stiffness and type of curve, and patient compliance, all play a role.
In some cases stabilization of the curve is achieved. A very small percentage of patients may still experience a progression of their curves, despite receiving the appropriate treatment. It always depends on the case, but in general, and with patient compliance, we see good results in the majority of cases.
What is the difference between ScoliBrace and a traditional TLSO?
Traditional Thoraco-Lumbar-Sacral-Orthosis (TLSO) braces use three-point pressure to immobilize the spine, with the goal of squeezing the spine into straighter alignment to prevent it from progressing further.
In contrast, the ScoliBrace approach genuinely attempts to individualize the correction and achieve an improved alignment of the spine and body posture in the brace. The brace’s over-corrective approach harnesses spinal coupling, not 3 point pressure, to create a better position of the three-dimensional posture of the body.
How does ScoliBrace differ from a cheneau style brace?
The way Cheneau and ScoliBrace work are very different. Cheneau is a 3-point pressure brace with space to allow for de-rotation.
Most Cheneau braces are not truly custom as they rely on the Schroth curve classification system which is limited and does not necessarily include every patient’s individual characteristics. Additionally, some approaches to Cheneau bracing rely on scaling pre-made library shapes to the size of the patient rather than creating a truly custom brace for that patient.
Is it normal to experience some pain or discomfort when wearing a brace?
As ScoliBrace is designed with correction in mind, some force is required to move the body into a position that straightens the spine. As such this can initially create pressure in certain areas, however as the spine straightens up and the body adapts to the brace these pressures decrease and discomfort usually subsides.
Patients are advised to gradually ease into the brace wear with 2 hour increments each day.
Patients are also advised to persevere through this initial phase as the body will adapt to the new posture being created by the brace. If discomfort persists, the ScoliBrace Provider can make slight modifications to the brace to make it more comfortable.
Can adults benefit from ScoliBrace?
There are specific adult versions of ScoliBrace that can be used in older patients who have finished growing. The aim is different in adults compared to pediatric patients. Braces for adults are used to alleviate pain and to prevent postural collapse and further curve progression. They are usually worn on a part-time basis and are preventative in nature. The Adult ScoliBrace is generally used during the day.
How long do adults need to wear the ScoliBrace?
Adults usually wear the ScoliBrace 4-8 hours per day on average. Preferably if an adult can move around and exercise in the brace they should do so. As braces are used to alleviate pain and postural collapse, the brace can be worn for short periods during the day to help improve function and quality of life. The brace wear schedule for adults is less strict when compared to pediatrics. Braces in adults can be viewed as a postural aid and therefore the wear time is less prescriptive and is decided upon on a case-by-case basis.
Do I have to sleep in the ScoliBrace?
If you are prescribed full-time (23 hours per day) wear or a night-time only brace then you will be required to sleep in the brace. Some patients find this a little difficult to begin with, but eventually get used to sleeping in the brace.
Can I wear my ScoliBrace when doing sport?
Time spent playing sport and/or participating in physical activity is considered as bonus time that a patient can be out of the brace. For example, a patient on a full-time, brace-wear schedule (23 hours) can wear the brace for 21 hours per day if they do 2 hours of sport on that day. The brace could be worn during certain sports that are not high impact. If a sport or activity causes any pain or discomfort, remove the
brace before continuing that activity.
What specialized training do certified providers have to deliver ScoliBrace?
Only qualified healthcare providers are eligible for ScoliBrace certification.
Certified ScoliBrace Providers receive extensive training via online and in-person lectures, hands-on training, and mentoring with ScoliBrace trainers until an appropriate level of compentency for certifcation is achieved.