Scoliosis is a condition of the spinal cord and vertebral column condition that appears during early adolescence and persists into adulthood if not treated right. It causes a sideways curvature of the spine, which results in morphological defects in human physiology. One alternative for treatment is the use of scoliosis braces. But there are multiple ways in which braces can be used. Here’s a quick look into the available options.
When Are Scoliosis Braces Used?
The best time for intervention using braces is during adolescence when the first signs of the problem appear. Wearing braces prevents the curvature from worsening and can reduce the need for surgeries. However, it is not a quick fix and does not guarantee results. A qualified expert can help you decide which brace is ideal for your specific situation.
Full-Time Braces:
Milwaukee Brace.
The Milwaukee brace was the first of its kind. It is wrapped around the entire back, from the cervical to the sacral region. It has a metal backbone and is very rigid. It is bulky and must be worn over the clothes. That’s one of the reasons it is not used as much anymore.
Boston Brace.
A Boston brace is far less noticeable. However, it only covers your back starting from the thoracic region. It is made of plastic, which makes it lightweight. You can go about your day quite easily with this one, but since it hooks in the back, you might need some help putting it on in the morning.
Wilmington Brace.
This one hooks in the front and fits those who want to put it on themselves. This one, along with the Boston brace, is custom-made to contour each individual’s spine. Their personalisation makes them more effective at treating unconventional cases.
Why Full-Time Braces Work.
A full-time brace is like constant therapy. It naturally corrects your spine, which is ideal for preventing your condition from worsening between visits to your doctor. It allows you to make physiologically correct movements and can help with back pain. However, a note of warning: Do not wear your braces while exercising. This can cause further injuries.
Nighttime Braces:
Charleston Bending Brace.
The Charleston brace is to be worn only before bed. It covers the torso from the thoracic to the sacral regions. It is custom-made and quite effective, which is why it is most recommended by doctors today. It is usually for people who are skeletally immature and have a curvature of the spine less than 35°.
Although it does put a lot of pressure on the spine, it is preferred by patients because it only needs to be worn at night. Wearing this brace can prevent further worsening of the condition. It can improve your back while the rest of your body also does the same thing: heal.
Why Nighttime Braces Work.
Since most people encounter the first signs of scoliosis during adolescence, that would be the right time for treatment. Nighttime braces are effective because growth hormones are also released during sleep. Giving the body a structure to restrict incorrect spinal growth can avert severe scoliosis.
Full-Time vs Nighttime: Which is Better?
Studies have shown that nighttime scoliosis braces might be equally effective as full-time braces. Nighttime braces have an 89% success rate. So, if, according to your doctor, you have the choice between the two, nighttime braces might be more practical — especially if you tend to have busy days and wish to avoid the irritable feeling of having your torso tightly jacketed the whole day.
