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Scoliosis Bracing

Your spine specialist may order a brace for your child to wear. Several factors are taken into consideration when making this decision such as the age of your child, type and location of curvature and the amount of growth remaining that is expected.

In general, bracing is recommended for scoliosis that measures between 25 and 40 degrees or if a curve progresses 5 degrees and your child is still growing.  The goal of bracing is to stop or slow down the worsening of the curve.  The best results come from wearing the brace as prescribed, but parents need to be prepared for challenges.

Scoliosis Bracing at CHKD

Not every patient who has scoliosis requires surgery. For some, scoliosis bracing in addition to physical therapy is all that’s needed. Learn more about scoliosis bracing at CHKD and how it helped patient Madyson Merson get back to doing the things she loves.

Types of Braces We Prescribe

Your specialist will decide which type of brace is appropriate for your child.

Tips for Parents When Bracing is Prescribed

  • You can expect to get the prescription at the doctor’s appointment. You will then need to make an appointment for your child to be fit for the brace at an orthotics office. At the first appointment, they will either do a cast/mold or scanning device to fit your child for their brace. Your child will be able to pick a color and design for their  brace.
  • After two to three weeks of wearing their brace, you will go back to the orthopedic doctor for an in-brace x-ray to ensure a proper fit.
  • Visits to the orthotist may be frequent while you get the best fit. You’ll have to go back if your child grows taller or wider. Your child may have to get multiple adjustments.
  • Your child may complain of the brace being uncomfortable, or experience some difficulty moving around as they are adjusting to their brace.
  • Pay attention to your child as they enter growth spurts to ensure the brace is fitting properly. If you have any concerns about the brace fitting properly, contact your orthotist.
  • Parents can expect whining, complaining and non-compliance.
  • Some children may try to be sneaky. They may put their brace on in the morning to go to school and then take it off before they get to school. They will put their brace on after school to make it appear that they have been wearing it all day.
  •  Hug your child often to feel if they are wearing their brace.
  • Some patients may remove their brace as they sleep. They wake and remove it and then don't remember doing so. If your child does this, make sure to talk to your specialist.

Hints, Tips and Tricks When Living With A Brace

  • Wear a seamless tank under the brace. Seams can cause those itchy, irritating indentations in the skin.
  • Don't be discouraged by your pant size. You will want to increase all your clothes by 1 or 2 sizes in order to accommodate for your brace
  • Avoid applying lotions, oils or perfumes underneath your brace.
  • If you are a stomach sleeper, you may need to invest in a body pillow for comfort. Sleeping on your stomach can be uncomfortable while wearing your brace.
  • Let your doctor know if you experience tingling or numbness while sitting (for example: in class); your brace may need to be adjusted to fit your legs better.
  • It is very important for the brace to be worn tightly. This prevents excess rubbing and irritation. 

Refer to Our Scoliosis and Spine Program

CHKD's Scoliosis and Spine Program provides care for patients from birth to age 21. No testing or referrals are needed before the first appointment.

Spinal Bracing Guide

Helpful tips and common questions about spinal bracing.