Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways abnormally, often in an "S" or "C" shape. Instead of running straight down the back, the spine twists and rotates, which can cause problems with posture and, in severe cases, even affect breathing.

Prevalence in Adolescents:

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common type, affecting about 2-3% of children between 10 and 18 years old. This means that roughly 3 million adolescents in the US alone have scoliosis.

Why Adolescents?

The reason it's most common in adolescents is because it tends to develop during growth spurts, when the body is changing rapidly. While the exact cause of AIS is unknown, factors like genetics and growth hormones may play a role.

Important Note:

While scoliosis can affect anyone, most cases in adolescents are mild and don't require treatment. However, regular checkups are essential to monitor the curve and determine if intervention is necessary.

Scoliosis is classified by the magnitude of curvature, the apex vertebrae and the direction of curve as determined by a standing x-ray. For example, a common curve classification is a Right Thoracic Curve between 25-30 degrees at apex T8.

Scoliosis Bracing

Early detection and appropriate management with scoliosis bracing can help prevent the condition from worsening and minimize its impact on the patient's quality of life. Scoliosis braces are commonly referred to as a TLSO. The acronym TLSO stands for Thoracic Lumbar Sacral Orthosis (i.e. spinal brace). Scoliosis braces are often prescribed by a physician to address scoliotic curves between 20-40 degrees and when the patient's skeleton is still growing.

The scoliosis brace applies corrective forces to the patient's torso to improve the alignment of the spine and allow the bones to grow into the improved position. The main goal of scoliosis bracing is to prevent the curve from increasing in magnitude.

There are different types of TLSO's that are used to treat scoliosis:

Boston TLSO: The Boston TLSO is designed to be worn as often as possible throughout the day and night, taking breaks for showering and exercise/physical therapy.

Nighttime TLSO: The Nighttime TLSO is designed to be worn at nighttime with the patient supine. This type of TLSO is effective treating all curve types: lumbar, thoracic, double major, and thoracolumbar.

Key Differences:

Wearing time: Boston TLSO braces are typically worn for more hours per day than Nighttime TLSO's.
Activity restrictions: Boston TLSOs may restrict some activities, while Nighttime TLSOs generally allow for more freedom of movement during the day.
Appearance: Boston TLSO braces are more noticeable under clothing than Nighttime TLSOs.
Comfort: Nighttime TLSO may be more comfortable for sleeping.

Brace Selection: The choice between a Boston vs. Nighttime bracing depends on factors like curve magnitude, location, patient preference and social factors. Brace selection is determined by your treating physician.

Customize Your TLSO

Your TLSO can be as unique as you are. Discover the artwork you would like for your TLSO. Here are a few popular options, but discover all options here.

Hearts & Roses

Mermaids

Tornado

Solar

Wear & Care

Donning Your Spinal Brace

1. Sitting on edge of bed, open the brace and slide it around your torso. Be sure to
center the brace in the middle of your spine. Lie down and position the lumbar
pad at your waist level.

2. While lying down, evenly fasten the straps making sure the brace opening is parallel. Tighten the middle strap first, then working upwards from bottom to top.

3. Brace should be tightened to fit snug, gradually working up to the markings the orthotist has made on the straps.

4. Make sure no straps are twisted.

Proper Strap Tension

Straps should be tightened so they are comfortably snug. The object is to eliminate excess motion between your body and the orthosis, but NOT to overtighten the straps. Look for pre-marked lines your orthotist may have made on the straps for quick reference.

Cleaning

The orthosis can be cleaned with soap and warm water or rubbing alcohol. Be sure to thoroughly rinse any soap/detergents off and dry the orthosis before donning.

Comfort Tips

Always wear your spinal brace over a cotton T-shirt that provides coverage in all of the contact areas of the brace. Try to keep the fabric smooth against skin and avoid fabric wrinkles or bunching. Feel free to change your T-shirt halfway through the day to increase your comfort.

Areas of Redness

Some minor surface redness is common and should dissipate quickly. Check for localized redness after each wearing period and before continuing with the break-in schedule. If redness, irritation persists call your orthotist for adjustments.

Break-in Procedure

Begin use of the brace with an initial wearing period of one half-hour. If you find no problems or have no questions, you may safely double each wearing period.

For example, ½ hour to 1 hour, 1 hour to 2 hours, 2 hours to 4 hours etc.
Eventually wearing the TLSO for the duration of your prescribed daily wearing time.

Your orthotist will give you instructions on how many hours per night you should be wearing the orthosis for best results.

Follow-up care

Follow-up visits with your Physician and Orthotist are vital for your treatment – don’t skip any scheduled appointments. Contact us for adjustments to the TLSO for fit & function.