How Does Bracing Help Scoliosis?
Braces are generally effective in providing immediate control of curves. When a brace is first applied, a significant correction is often seen. However, once the child stops wearing the brace, the curve usually returns. The Milwaukee brace is effective in preventing further progression of spinal curves. However, children often do not wear the brace as prescribed because it has to be worn nearly all the time-often 23 hours a day-and because the child may be embarrassed by how it looks. The decision about which brace to wear depends on the type of curve and whether the patient will follow the doctor’s directions about how many hours a day to wear the brace. The TLSO “Boston Brace” is now most commonly used because it is effective in preventing a spinal curve from getting worse, and it is easier to use because it can be worn under clothing. Although bracing does not always prevent a spinal curve from getting worse, the best results occur when: • Bracing is started early, while the child i
