What is a scoliosis corset?
A scoliosis corset consists of one or more firm plastic parts and is fixed to the body with straps and Velcro fasteners. With the help of incorporated pressure pads (pads) and free spaces (expansion zones), the spine is rotated back into a healthy shape, bent and straightened again.
When to use a scoliosis brace?
A healthy spine has the shape of a double “S”, ensuring an upright stance and stable body balance. There is a forward curvature (lordosis) in the lumbar and cervical vertebrae, and a backward curvature (kyphosis) in the thoracic spine.
If additional curvatures occur to the left or right side and the vertebral bodies twist, doctors speak of scoliosis. This usually develops during growth and its cause is not known (idiopathic). A scoliosis corset directs the growth of the spine and thus corrects the curvatures.
For curvatures of the lumbar spine, a so-called Boston orthosis is used, in the thoracic spine a Chêneau orthosis and in the cervical spine, a Milwaukee orthosis.
What do you do with a scoliosis corset?
Scoliosis corsets are custom-made, unlike industrially manufactured support corsets. With the help of X-rays, the doctor estimates the extent of the scoliosis and makes a plaster cast of the spine. This serves as a template for the scoliosis corset, which is made by an orthopedic technician and whose fit is corrected if necessary after the first fitting.
During the acclimatization period, the scoliosis corset is gradually worn for longer and longer periods until the optimum wearing time for effective treatment of 23 hours per day is reached. The corset should be removed only for washing or showering.
During the treatment, the doctor checks the healing process at regular intervals with the help of X-rays. If the spine is sufficiently corrected by the brace, the wearing time can be reduced by the hour during the weaning phase.
What are the risks of a scoliosis brace?
What do I have to consider with a scoliosis corset?
The scoliosis corset severely restricts mobility. Therefore, the corset therapy should be supported by physiotherapeutic treatments that strengthen the back muscles. Regular skin care is also important because of the long wearing time. Regular check-ups with the doctor, who checks that the brace fits correctly, ensure the success of treatment with the scoliosis brace.
