| v> | | | | be mentioned to the orthotist. Creams and lotions |
| This article provides useful, detailed information | | | | should not be applied during bracing because these |
| about Scoliosis Braces. | | | | products soften the skin, leaving it more |
| Bracing is a widely accepted treatment for | | | | vulnerable to marks caused by bracing. The Brace |
| Scoliosis, especially in the case of children and | | | | should not be exposed to high temperatures and |
| adolescents. The Brace is customized to suit the | | | | should be cleaned and dried periodically, before |
| different needs of patients, and primarily used to | | | | wearing. The commonly used Braces include the |
| prevent the spinal curve from worsening during | | | | Boston Brace, Milwaukee Brace, and Charleston |
| the growing age. It cannot rectify the existing | | | | Bending Brace. The Boston Brace is used for |
| spinal curve in Scoliosis patients.Bracing is | | | | treating a curvature in the thoraco-lumbar region |
| recommended for patients with curves measuring | | | | of the spine. It is usually worn 23 hours a day, but |
| between 25 to 40 degrees and showing a | | | | can be taken off while the patient engages in |
| progression of 5 degrees or more, every 4 to 6 | | | | physical activities like swimming or sports. The |
| months. Patients who have not attained complete | | | | function and pattern of use of the Milwaukee |
| skeletal growth tend to benefit most from | | | | Brace is similar to the Boston Brace, except that |
| bracing. A Brace is made and fitted to suit each | | | | it includes a neck ring. Unlike these two types of |
| individual curve. This task is performed by an | | | | Braces, the Charleston Bending Brace is worn only |
| orthotist, after an orthopedic specialist | | | | while sleeping. However, it is effective only if the |
| recommends bracing. Just as each Brace is | | | | top of the curve is lower than the level of the |
| customized, each wearer gets specific instructions | | | | shoulder blade.To conclude, although Scoliosis |
| on its use. The effectiveness of bracing is | | | | patients may initially find the Brace uncomfortable, |
| evaluated through periodic check-ups and X-rays. | | | | most of them adjust to it quite well in the long |
| Regular exercise is recommended along with | | | | run. Bracing is a safe, painless method to prevent |
| bracing to keep the body flexible, and maintain | | | | the progression of the spinal curve, and works |
| spinal and muscle strength. Skin problems or | | | | best for children and adolescents. |
| rashes that appear as a result of bracing should | | | | |