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What are the Different Types of Scoliosis Braces?

M.C. Huguelet
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 10,670
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Scoliosis braces are torso-conforming apparatuses – most commonly made of plastic or metal – intended to prevent further curvature of the spine among scoliosis patients whose bones have not yet reached maturity. A wide range of scoliosis braces exists. While the appropriate bracing option depends on the location and severity of the individual's spinal curve, braces are generally prescribed for patients whose degree of curvature falls between 20 and 40 percent.

Conceived by Drs. Albert Schmidt and Walter Blount in 1945, the Milwaukee Brace is one of the oldest scoliosis braces. This type of brace, usually prescribed for curvature in the upper spine, consists of a pelvis-encircling plastic corset and a neck ring held together by metal bars. In addition, the Milwaukee Brace incorporates a system of pads which are strapped into place according to the shape of the patient's spinal curve. These components work together to put pressure on the curve and force the torso into a straightened position while centering the head over the pelvis.

Because scoliosis braces are effective only in cases where the skeleton is not yet fully developed, it is necessary to consider the psychological and emotional ramifications that bracing can have upon young patients. Due to its high visibility and the fact that it must be worn for 23 hours per day, the Milwaukee Brace may negatively impact an adolescent's quality of life. A second type of brace, known as a Tharaco-Lumbo-Sacral-Orthosis (TLSO), is more compact and thus, if appropriate to a patient's particular curvature, may be a preferable option to the Milwaukee Brace.

TLSO actually indicates a family of scoliosis braces usually made of custom-fitted plastic, most often used to treat curvature of the mid- to lower-spine. Fairly easily concealed beneath clothing, a TLSO may be less obtrusive than the Milwaukee Brace. The most commonly prescribed TLSOs are the Boston Brace and the Charleston Bending Brace.

The Boston Brace comprises a plastic corset extending from beneath the breast area to the upper pelvis in the front and from the lower shoulder area to the buttocks in the rear. While the corset compresses the abdomen, forcing the lower spine into a flexed position, a system of pads similar to those used in the Milwaukee Brace exerts pressure on the spinal curve. When the brace is worn for the recommended 20 to 23 hours daily, these processes work to impede the worsening of spinal curvature.

Like the Boston Brace, the Charleston Bending Brace consists primarily of a custom-made plastic corset that hugs the torso. The Charleston brace, however, is designed to be worn for approximately eight hours per day as a patient sleeps. Typically, the brace is shaped so that it bends away from the scoliotic curve, counterbalancing it, and thus restricting further curvature.

Scoliosis brace designers have focused on creating flexible products, allowing greater comfort and freedom of movement for the wearer. One example of these flexible braces is SpineCor®, a vest-style apparatus that targets spinal curvature with its adjustable straps. Because such products have only existed for a limited time, their effectiveness has not been as thoroughly tested as that of older models.

A number of medical studies confirm the overall benefits of bracing; however, it is important to note that although treatment by brace can limit future curvature, it will not reverse pre-existing curves. Further, some scoliosis simply does not respond to bracing. Though this phenomenon is not yet totally understood, failure to wear one's brace exactly as prescribed can certainly contribute to its lack of success. Lastly, bracing is usually not appropriate where scoliotic curvature exceeds 40 percent; in these cases, patients might consider correction by surgery.

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M.C. Huguelet
By M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide range of publications, including WiseGeek. With degrees in Writing and English, she brings a unique perspective and a commitment to clean, precise copy that resonates with readers. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.

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Discussion Comments
By candyquilt — On Sep 20, 2014

My sister uses the Boston brace. She wears it under her clothes and it's really not noticeable. Her spine has been improving so it is working.

I saw picture of the Milwaukee brace online. I can't believe that such a brace was used in the past. I don't know anyone could go around in it. It must have been so uncomfortable for patients. I'm sure youngsters were ashamed of it because it's impossible not to notice.

I'm so glad that there are much better, less apparent braces available now. The Charleston brace is also cool. It's only worn at night time so it's even better for adolescents who don't want their friends to know that they wear a brace. But I don't think it's suitable for every type of scoliosis.

By fBoyle — On Sep 19, 2014

@ysmina-- I don't think so. Scoliosis is a serious condition that requires treatment. Any random brace cannot be used for scoliosis. It will probably do more harm than good.

A doctor has to determine the right brace for a patient after the exact type an severity of scoliosis has been diagnosed. Some times of braces can even be custom made for the patient's exact spinal shape to have the best effect.

I don't recommend anyone with scoliosis to select and use a brace without the approval and supervision of his or her doctor.

By ysmina — On Sep 19, 2014

Aside from these, there are also numerous posture correcting back braces sold online. Is it okay to use these for scoliosis? Will they work just as well as the ones mentioned in the article?

M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide...
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