At Scottish Rite for Children, we are committed to providing individualized patient care to every child. As one of the most common conditions our experts treat, scoliosis can present in many forms. Depending on the child and the severity of their curve, the plan for treatment can vary.
Bracing is a treatment option for patients whose curve is smaller to moderate. It is during a patient’s adolescent years that he or she is growing the most, which means their curve can also grow. The ultimate goal of a brace is to prevent the curve from getting larger to ultimately avoid the need for surgery in the future. However, a brace does not cure scoliosis.
At Scottish Rite, there are different types of custom-made braces for patients. Below are the most common:
- TLSO stands for thoracolumbosacral orthosis.
- For a child whose curve ranges from 25 to 40 degrees and is located in the middle to lower back.
- This brace is worn during the day. Depending on the child’s curve, the doctor will prescribe the number of hours he or she should wear the brace.
- Custom made for every child, the brace starts at the armpit and comes down to the pelvic bone.
- The brace is worn under clothing.
- Patients are able to remain active while wearing the brace. However, you must check with your doctor on any restrictions.
Providence (nighttime) Brace
- Used for smaller curves located lower on the spine.
- Most effective for patients who still have a good amount of growing left.
- Because of its structure, this brace can only be worn at night.
- The brace goes up one side of the body, essentially pushing the curve the opposite way.
- The brace holds the spine in the correct straight position while growing during the night.
- It is custom made for each child.
- It doesn’t hurt, but if uncomfortable, it can be refitted.
- Within a few days, patients say they are used to sleeping while wearing the brace.
Learn more about scoliosis bracing.
