Does poor posture cause Scoliosis?

Posted on January 17, 2024 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by an abnormal curvature and twist of the spine, which can result in physical limitations and discomfort. While the exact cause of scoliosis is not fully understood, it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

 

Can poor posture cause Scoliosis?

One of the environmental factors that is often associated with scoliosis is poor posture – people with scoliosis are often perceived as having poor posture, and many parents worry that poor posture can cause Scoliosis – but can it? The bottom line is no – poor posture does not cause Scoliosis. Poor posture is a common problem that affects many people worldwide – and it can be a painful issue though. Poor posture can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and poor ergonomics – but while Scoliosis might cause someone to appear to have poor posture, there’s no evidence to show that poor posture will lead to Scoliosis.

When we have poor posture, our bodies are not in alignment, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Poor posture can also cause our muscles and joints to work harder than they should, leading to fatigue and discomfort. That “hunched” appearance which used to be associated with teens but seems to apply to almost everyone these days is more characteristic of Kyphosis, rather than Scoliosis – and in extreme cases, poor posture might be caused by Kyphosis, but not Scoliosis.

 

Is there any relationship between Scoliosis and Poor posture?

Most Scoliosis research focuses on establishing the true cause of Scoliosis, and the best ways to treat it, so there hasn’t been much research into whether poor posture might contribute once the condition already exists. Therefore, while poor posture is not a direct cause of scoliosis, it might be a factor which could contribute to the progression of the condition. When we have poor posture, our spines are not in the proper alignment, which can cause our muscles and ligaments to become strained and weakened, it’s feasible that this might make it more possible for scoliosis to progress.

Many aspects of a Scoliosis treatment plan are aimed at creating balance and strength in the core muscles which support the spine, so while maintaining good posture is important for everyone, it’s fair to say that focusing on good posture is especially important for those with scoliosis. Good posture can help to alleviate some of the painful symptoms which some people experience with scoliosis at the very least.

 

Maintaining good posture

Scoliosis or not, you can only do yourself a favour by maintaining good posture – Here are some tips:

  1. Stand up straight: When standing, make sure your weight is evenly distributed on both feet, and your shoulders are relaxed.
  2. Sit up straight: When sitting, make sure your back is straight, and your feet are flat on the ground.
  3. Use proper ergonomics: Make sure your desk and chair are at the proper height and distance to promote good posture.
  4. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, helping to prevent the progression of scoliosis.
  5. Stretch regularly: Regular stretching can help to alleviate the symptoms of scoliosis and improve flexibility.

 

Treating Scoliosis

Treating Scoliosis is about much more than altering postural imbalances – Scoliosis treatment requires a focus on good nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits as well as a proactive approach such as Bracing. In this regard, there’s a lot we can do to help patients support treatment plans – and much of the advice would be beneficial to almost anyone!

For example, regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, and eating a balanced diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D can also help to promote strong bones and a healthy spine.

So, while poor posture is not a direct cause of scoliosis, it’s not impossible that it might contribute to the progression of the condition. This being said, maintaining good posture is important for everyone, and might even help with pain relief in those with Scoliosis. By focusing on good nutrition, exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits, we can care for our spines, with, or without Scoliosis!

 

 

 

Happy New Year from the UK Scoliosis Clinic!

Posted on January 1, 2024 by - Blog

As the calendar turns to 2024, all of us at the UK Scoliosis Clinic want to extend our warmest wishes for a happy and healthy New Year to our patients, their families, and our wider community.

The past year has been a journey of growth and positive change. We’ve had the privilege of helping many individuals manage their scoliosis, witnessing their progress and resilience. Your trust and commitment inspire us daily, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of your healthcare journey.

In 2024, we are excited to continue providing top-notch care and innovative treatment options. We have several new initiatives and programs planned to enhance our services and support our patients even better. Our goal, however, remains the same – to offer the best, most comprehensive care that not only addresses the physical aspects of scoliosis but also supports overall well-being.

As we step into this New Year, we encourage you to set new goals, prioritise your health, and stay committed to your treatment plans. Remember, managing scoliosis is a team effort, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you for being part of the UK Scoliosis Clinic family. May this year bring you peace, joy, and good health. Happy New Year!

Warm regards,

The UK Scoliosis Clinic Team

Happy Christmas 2023!

Posted on December 23, 2023 by - Blog

One of the best things about Christmas is spending time with loved ones. Whether you’re cuddled up by the fire with your significant other, or surrounded by family and friends at a big holiday party, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being surrounded by those who care about you.

Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without all the delicious food and drink that goes along with it. From turkey and stuffing to eggnog and mulled wine, there are plenty of festive treats to indulge in during the holiday season. And let’s not forget about all the sweet treats like Christmas cookies and candy canes!

But beyond the presents and the food, there’s something truly special about the spirit of Christmas. It’s a time of year when people come together to spread joy and kindness, to give back to those in need, and to reflect on all the things that we have to be grateful for.

From all of us here at the UK Scoliosis Clinic, we wish you a very Merry Christmas! May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and lots of festive cheer. We’ll be back in January 2nd – see you then! 🙂

Christmas Opening Hours 2023

Posted on December 22, 2023 by - Blog

The UK Scoliosis Clinc is open on a number of dates in the run-up to Christmas- Paul will be in the clinic on:

Wed 27/12/23

Thurs 28/12/23

Fri 29/12/23

 

If you’d like to book an appointment on any of these dates please do so quickly as hours are limited. Thank you!

How Long Does Scoliosis Bracing Take?

Posted on December 12, 2023 by - Blog

Scoliosis bracing is a highly effective, non-surgical treatment option for children and adolescents with moderate to severe scoliosis. Braces are custom-made to fit the patient’s body and apply pressure to the spine to encourage it to grow in a more normal alignment. The goal of scoliosis bracing is primarily to stop the progression of the curvature until the child’s spine has stopped growing, and, ideally to correct the existing curve to leave the patient with as straight a spine as possible.

 

Factors which impact bracing time

Scoliosis bracing works over time – the fundamental aspect of the treatment is the gradual application of corrective force over a period of months, and probably years. The exact length of time a person needs to wear a brace depends on several factors, including the severity of the curvature, the age of the child, and the rate of spinal growth. Children who are diagnosed with scoliosis at a younger age are more likely to need longer treatment times because their spines are still growing, and the curvature may progress more quickly. The severity of the curvature is also an important factor, as more severe curvature may require a more rigid brace or a combination of bracing and other treatments, such as surgery. At the same time, cases which are caught early in young children have some of the best chances of a complete correction – although these patients will generally need to continue with some form of Scoliosis prevention until they reach adulthood.  Cases which are treated for the first time in Adults (often a form of Scoliosis known as degenerative or “de-novo” Scoliosis) often improve with only part-time bracing[1].

The compliance of a patient with wearing the brace is also an essential factor. If a patient wears the brace as directed, they are more likely to see positive results and need to wear the brace intensively for a shorter period of time. Again once a curve has been corrected, some maintenance is required, but this can usually be part-time brace-wearing, often at night or in the evening.

The length of time a patient needs to wear a brace can therefore vary widely, but on average, children wear a brace for a considerable amount of time (often 20+ hours a day) for two to three years. After this part-time wear or a program of Scoliosis specific exercise is usually sufficient to prevent a reoccurrence.

 

Is wearing a Scoliosis brace hard?

The duration of scoliosis bracing is an important consideration for parents and children. It can be challenging for children to adjust to wearing a brace consistently for an extended period, but it is crucial for the success of the treatment. Parents can help their children by providing emotional support and encouragement and ensuring that the child wears the brace as directed – as a clinic, we do everything we can to make brace wearing as comfortable and manageable as possible!

It’s also important to monitor a patient’s progress regularly as part of treatment to ensure that the brace is working as intended. Based on this progress, wear time can be adjusted up or down based on goals as well as how well the brace is being tolerated. We usually recommend regular X-rays to check the progression of the curvature and adjust the treatment plan as necessary – this approach allows maximum flexibility in the trade-off between in-brace time and speed of treatment.

While scoliosis bracing can be challenging for children and adolescents, it can also be an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. Children who successfully complete scoliosis bracing often develop increased self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

[1] ‘Effects of Bracing in Adult With Scoliosis: A Retrospective Study‘
Palazzo C, Montigny JP, Barbot F, Bussel B, Vaugier I, Fort D, Courtois I, Marty-Poumarat C, Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2016 Jun 22. pii: S0003-9993(16)30256-8. doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2016.05.019

 

How common is Scoliosis?

Posted on December 2, 2023 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a condition that affects the curvature of the spine. The spine has a natural curve, backwards and forwards, but in Scoliosis the spine curves excessively from side to side.  The condition can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents. In this blog post, we will explore how common scoliosis is and the different factors that can contribute to the development of the condition.

 

How Common is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a relatively common condition, with an estimated prevalence of 2-3% in the general population. This means that about 2-3 people out of 100 have some degree of scoliosis. The condition is more common in girls than boys, and it tends to run in families. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), approximately 80% of scoliosis cases have no known cause, and the condition is often diagnosed during routine school screenings. This of course isn’t the case in the UK, since school screenings are not provided!

There are different types of scoliosis, and the prevalence of the condition varies depending on the type. Idiopathic scoliosis, which is the most common type, accounts for about 80% of all cases of scoliosis. This type of scoliosis occurs for no known reason (which means that we don’t yet know why, not that there is no reason at all!) and can develop at any age – it is most commonly diagnosed in adolescents between the ages of 10 and 18.

Another type of scoliosis is congenital scoliosis, which is present at birth and is caused by abnormal spinal development. Congenital scoliosis is less common than idiopathic scoliosis and accounts for about 10% of all cases of scoliosis in children. Neuromuscular scoliosis is another type, which is caused by underlying neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy. Overall, congenital cases are a much smaller percentage of cases, but it’s still a condition which is seen fairly often.

Degenerative scoliosis is also known as adult scoliosis, and it typically develops in people over the age of 50. As people age, the discs in the spine start to wear down, and the vertebrae can begin to shift and rotate, leading to scoliosis. Other factors that can contribute to the development of degenerative scoliosis include osteoporosis, arthritis, and other spinal conditions. Degenerative scoliosis is actually the most common form of Scoliosis – as many as 1 in 3 people over the age of 60 suffer from the condition.

 

Does Age Contribute to the Development of Scoliosis?

The exact cause of scoliosis is unknown, but researchers have identified certain factors that may contribute to the development of the condition. While age is one of these, it’s just one of many factors. These include:

Genetics

Scoliosis tends to run in families, which suggests that there may be a genetic component to the condition. Researchers have identified several genes that may be associated with scoliosis, but more research is needed to understand the role of genetics in the development of the condition.

Gender

Scoliosis is more common in girls than boys, particularly in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. This may be due to differences in hormonal levels or the fact that girls tend to go through growth spurts earlier than boys. This difference tends to even out in adult and degenerative Scoliosis cases.

Neuromuscular conditions

Neuromuscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, can also contribute to the development of scoliosis. These conditions affect the muscles and nerves that control the spine, leading to abnormal curvature.

Posture and body mechanics

Poor posture and body mechanics don’t cause Scoliosis, but they might contribute to worsening it. One group which has a particularly high incidence of Scoliosis is ballet dancers and gymnasts – one theory suggests that contorting the body as required in these activities might worsen scoliosis.

Spinal conditions

Certain spinal conditions, such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis, can also contribute to the development of scoliosis in older people. These conditions can cause the vertebrae to shift and rotate, leading to abnormal curvature.

 

 

Do Animals Get Scoliosis?

Posted on November 30, 2023 by - Blog

At the UK Scoliosis Clinic we focus on the non-surgical treatment of Scoliosis … in humans! But one of the most common questions we hear (especially from some of our younger patients!) is “Do animals get scoliosis too?” The short answer is yes, they do – and while we’re not Veterinarians here, it is both useful and interesting to take a look at Scoliosis in animals and why it matters.

 

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis, in case you’re not aware, is, a medical condition characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, everyone’s spine has a normal “backwards and forwards” curve which is important for absorbing shocks and carrying the weight of the body, however in Scoliosis the spine also curves “from side to side” which can lead to problems. Scoliosis is observed in and associated with humans – however, while our understanding of this condition in animals may not be as extensive as it is in humans, there is evidence to suggest that various species can indeed experience spinal conditions including Scoliosis.

 

Scoliosis in Humans vs. Animals

Human scoliosis is well-documented and (thanks to more prevalent screening) can now often be diagnosed early during adolescence. It can result from a variety of factors, including genetics, neuromuscular conditions, or congenital abnormalities. In animals, the situation is more complex due to the diversity of species and the limited research available. However, cases of scoliosis have been reported in both domestic and wild animals, suggesting that this condition is not exclusive to humans.

 

Evidence of Scoliosis in Animals

Veterinarians and researchers have observed instances of scoliosis in various animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and even fish. In fact, one species of fish, the Zebrafish, is one of the leading research species as we attempt to understand the genetic factors which lead to Scoliosis in the first place! In domestic pets, such as dogs and cats, scoliosis may be congenital or develop later in life due to factors like muscle imbalances or injuries.

 

Causes of Scoliosis in Animals

Understanding the causes of scoliosis in animals is challenging, as it can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Congenital scoliosis, present at birth, may result from genetic mutations or developmental issues during gestation. Acquired scoliosis, on the other hand, can develop later in an animal’s life due to injuries, muscle imbalances, or underlying health conditions.

Genetic factors play a crucial role in the development of scoliosis in some animal species. While it has not yet been fully proven, most Scoliosis specialists and researchers agree that Genetic factors are probably the main cause of Scoliosis in humans – at least in adolescents. In animals, the cause might be similar, but the underlying circumstances may be different – selective breeding in domesticated animals, particularly dogs and cats, may inadvertently contribute to a higher incidence of congenital spinal deformities. In wild animals, genetic predispositions to scoliosis are less understood, but researchers believe that natural selection may influence the prevalence of such conditions in certain populations.

Unfortunately, environmental factors, such as inadequate living conditions, can also contribute to the development of scoliosis in animals. For example, animals kept in cramped or restrictive environments may experience muscle imbalances or abnormal growth patterns, leading to spinal deformities. Injuries, whether from accidents or repetitive activities, can also play a role in the onset of scoliosis.

Of course, animals also age just like we do and it’s reasonable to speculate that with greater age may come a higher incidence of some kinds of Scoliosis in animals. We know that this is the case in Humans, where as many as one in three people over the age of 65 suffer from a condition known as “de-novo Scoliosis” – which is simply the result of ageing.

 

Implications for Animal Well-being

Scoliosis in animals can have significant implications for their overall health and well-being, just as it can for humans. There’s a significant lack of research here, although we can say that in domestic pets, the condition may cause discomfort, affect mobility, and impact their quality of life – of course, for many of our pets, there are services like massage and therapy which can help manage this just like in Humans!

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing scoliosis in animals can be challenging, as they may not exhibit obvious symptoms until the condition is advanced. In fact, the same issue applies in humans – with Scoliosis being notoriously difficult to spot without specialised screening. Screening in Humans is easy since we have developed simple screening exercises which take less than 5 minutes to impairment – unfortunately, we don’t have the same options for animals at present, so veterinarians often rely on a combination of physical examinations, imaging studies such as X-rays, and, in some cases, genetic testing to determine the presence and severity of scoliosis.

Treatment options for scoliosis in animals vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, conservative management, including physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, may be sufficient to improve an animal’s comfort and mobility. For more severe cases or those with a congenital origin, surgical intervention could be considered to correct the spinal deformity.

 

So do animals get Scoliosis?

While the prevalence of scoliosis in animals may not be as well-documented as it is in humans, there is growing evidence to suggest that various species can experience spinal deformities such as Scoliosis. Genetic and environmental factors can play a role in the development of scoliosis in animals, and its implications for their well-being are significant, but like in humans, with research, we’re confident it can be managed.

As our understanding of scoliosis in animals continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly important for veterinarians, researchers, and pet owners alike to be aware of the condition and its potential impact on animal health. By recognising and addressing scoliosis in animals – just like in humans – we can work towards enhancing their quality of life and ensuring that they receive the care and attention they deserve.

 

Black Friday – FREE X-RAYS!

Posted on November 23, 2023 by - Blog

This Black Friday, the UK Scoliosis Clinic is delighted to offer you the gift of Free X-rays! We understand the importance of early detection and personalised care when it comes to scoliosis, and that’s why we’re thrilled to announce our exclusive Black Friday X-Ray Special.

Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to receive a FREE spinal X-ray at our state-of-the-art clinic. Scoliosis affects people of all ages, and early detection is key to effective management. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to providing comprehensive assessments to ensure you receive the personalised care you deserve.

Why choose the UK Scoliosis Clinic? Our clinic boasts cutting-edge technology, compassionate staff, and a patient-centered approach to spinal health. By offering free X-rays this Black Friday, we aim to empower individuals to take proactive steps towards a healthier, straighter tomorrow.

Don’t miss out on this chance to prioritise your spinal well-being. Simply book an in-clinic consultation between 23rd and 26th November and we’ll include a full set of X-rays totally free. The X-rays are yours to keep whether you become a client of the clinic or not!

 

How fast does Scoliosis get worse?

Posted on November 9, 2023 by - Blog

Scoliosis is a progressive condition – this means it tends to worsen with age, but the speed at which it does this can vary. Scoliosis is known to accelerate during growth spurts, and worsens more quickly in young people than adults. Then again, a form of scoliosis, known as “de-novo scoliosis” is common in older adults, and can also progress quite rapidly.

Each Scoliosis case is unique, and predicting growth rates depends on factors like severity, rigidity, and family history. Broadly speaking, Juvenile scoliosis over 30 degrees can rapidly progress, usually necessitating surgery, while 21 to 30-degree curves may lead to surgery or disability if left untreated[1][2].

Acting quickly and proactively is crucial to halt scoliosis progression and correct curvature before surgery is required.

 

Don’t wait and see

Research by the British Scoliosis Society reveals that even during the consultation process, scoliosis curves can progress considerably. In a 2018 study, patients waiting for scoliosis surgery experienced rapid curve progression, with some requiring more extensive surgery than initially planned. The study included curves ranging from 17° to 90°, emphasising the need for timely intervention[3].

This shows why “wait and see” is such a bad approach to scoliosis treatment – this study alone highlighted the impact of delayed consultation, turning smaller curves into larger, more challenging cases. This is all the more important when you consider that today, with modern approach to treatment, something like a 30-degree curve has an excellent prognosis with conservative treatments like scolibrace,

 

Older Adults and Scoliosis

In general, Scoliosis in adults can be described as slightly more predictable. Adult scoliosis cases tend to progress at a steadier rate, but an additional risk arises with age – degenerative or de-novo scoliosis. Caused by wear and tear on spinal discs, this form is common among older adults, affecting about 30% of those over 60 [6].

De-novo scoliosis progresses more slowly than childhood or adolescent scoliosis but faster than the very gradual development seen after reaching skeletal maturity and before age 60. De-novo Scoliosis can significantly impact quality of life. Patients often experience back and leg pain, making walking or standing difficult. Standard conservative treatments may not provide relief, and surgery may not be an option due to conditions like osteoporosis.

For these patients, a gentle supportive brace can offer relief, helping them stand more comfortably for longer periods. Early intervention and proper treatment can make a substantial difference in managing degenerative scoliosis in older adults.

 

Conclusion

Scoliosis progression is not a linear process, it’s unpredictable and that makes taking proactive action as soon as possible all the more important. Waiting for consultation or surgery can lead to rapid and undesirable changes, turning manageable cases into more severe ones. Both young patients with progressive scoliosis and older adults facing degenerative scoliosis require proactive approaches to halt progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.

 

[1] Charles YP, Daures JP, de Rosa V, Diméglio A. “Progression risk of idiopathic juvenile scoliosis during pubertal growth.” Spine. 2006 Aug 1;31(17):1933-42.

[2] H V Dabke, A Jones, S Ahuja, J Howes, P R Davies. “SHOULD PATIENTS WAIT FOR SCOLIOSIS SURGERY?” Orthopaedic Proceedings. Vol. 88-B, No. SUPP_II.

[3] Angelo G Aulisa et al. “Brace treatment in juvenile idiopathic scoliosis: a prospective study in accordance with the SRS criteria for bracing studies.” Scoliosis. 2014; 9:3. DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-9-3.

The History Of Scoliosis Bracing

Posted on October 15, 2023 by - Blog

Today, bracing is rightly recognised as one of the most effective ways to treat Scoliosis without surgery. While bracing is not suitable in every case, research suggests that in the majority of patients bracing can at least halt the progression of a Scoliosis curve[1], and in many cases, a significant degree of correction to the curve is usually possible[2].

While bracing is only now starting to be viewed as a viable alternative to surgery (not least because the success rates for modern braces are not widely known) spinal bracing for Scoliosis is not a new idea – in fact, there have been Scoliosis braces for almost a long as there have been written records!

 

Early Bracing Techniques

Throughout history there is evidence of attempts to correct spinal conditions using bracing – for much of history, however, bracing techniques were crude and often uncomfortable. Hippocrates is thought to have been the first physician to describe the use of a wooden board to straighten a curved spine. However, this technique was not widely used until the 16th century, when Ambroise Paré, a French surgeon, developed a similar device. His device consisted of a wooden board that was wrapped around the patient’s torso and secured with leather straps. Paré believed that the device could straighten the spine by applying pressure to the curved area. Paré was clearly an intelligent man – not only was he the first to formally document the preponderance of Scoliosis in Females, his basic theory for the non-surgical treatment of the condition was essentially correct.

In the 17th century, a German physician named Lorenz Heister developed a metal brace that was designed to be worn around the torso. Heister also believed that the brace could help straighten the spine by applying constant pressure to the curved area. However, the brace was heavy, uncomfortable, and not very effective.

 

18th and 19th Century Bracing Techniques

In the 18th century, a French physician named Jean Baptiste Bouvier developed a new type of brace called the spinal brace. The spinal brace was made of metal and leather and was designed to fit snugly around the torso, providing support for the spine. Bouvier believed that scoliosis was caused by weak muscles and that the spinal brace could help strengthen these muscles and correct the curvature of the spine. However, the spinal brace was again, uncomfortable and not very effective.

In the 19th century, several other types of braces were developed to treat scoliosis. One of the most popular was the Taylor brace, which was developed by Dr Robert Taylor in 1864. The Taylor brace was made of metal and leather and was designed to fit snugly around the torso. Critically, the brace was adjustable, allowing the physician to apply pressure to specific areas of the spine. The Taylor brace was the first brace to be widely used in the United States and, in its adjustable nature was a key step towards the technology we have today.

Another brace that was developed in the 19th century was the Risser cast. The Risser cast was made of plaster and was designed to be worn around the torso. The cast was used to immobilize the spine and prevent further curvature. While the Risser cast was effective in preventing further curvature, it was uncomfortable and limited the patient’s mobility.

 

20th-Century Bracing Techniques

By the 20th century, various types of braces had already been developed – they all focused on the key goal we still have today – gently guiding the spine back into the correct alignment. What early braces lacked, however, was a material which provided enough flexibility in design to be truly effective.

One of the most significant developments of the 20th century was therefore the use of plastics in brace construction. Plastics allowed for the creation of lightweight and more comfortable braces which could be much better formed to the torso of the patient. One of the most popular of these new braces was the Boston brace, which was developed by Dr John Hall in 1972. The Boston brace was made of plastic and was designed to fit snugly around the torso, with a series of pads and straps that could be adjusted to apply pressure to specific areas of the spine. The Boston brace was more comfortable than previous braces and was effective in treating scoliosis in many patients – while the Boston brace was not often effective in reducing Scoliosis, it was the first to have a high success rate in preventing the worsening of the condition.

 

Bracing post-2000

Another significant development in scoliosis bracing – and one which brings us up to date – is the use of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies. These technologies allowed for the creation of custom-made braces that are specifically designed for each individual patient. This allowed for a more precise fit and better results. Modern plastics also allow braces to be more flexible and easy to wear than ever before.

Perhaps the most important development facilitated by CAD, however, was the introduction of “active” or “over corrective” braces – such as the ScoliBrace that we offer here at the clinic. The precision offered by computer-aided design and manufacture makes it possible to produce a brace which actually opposes scoliosis – therefore actually correcting the curve over time rather than just trying to stop its progression.

 

Learn more about Bracing

As you can see, modern braces such as the ScoliBrace are a refinement of literally hundreds of years of thought on Scoliosis – inventors and doctors have been aware of the way to treat Scoliosis without surgery for hundreds of years, but it’s only now that we finally have the technology to make this a reality. If you’d like to learn more about scoliosis and Scoliosis bracing, why not sign up for our free information series here.

 

 

[1] ‘Effects of Bracing in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis’   [Results of the BrAIST Clinical Trial]
Stuart L. Weinstein, Lori A. Dolan, James G. Wright, and Matthew B. Dobbs, N Engl J Med 2013; 369:1512-1521 October 17, 2013DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1307337

‘Idiopathic scoliosis patients with curves more than 45 Cobb degrees refusing surgery can be effectively treated through bracing with curve improvements’
Negrini S, Negrini F, and Zaina F, 2011, Spine J. 2011 May;11(5):369-80. doi: 10.1016/j.spinee.2010.12.001. Epub 2011 Feb 2.

 

[2] ‘Brace treatment in juvenile idiopathic scoliosis: a prospective study in accordance with the SRS criteria for bracing studies – SOSORT award 2013 winner‘
Angelo G Aulisa, Vincenzo Guzzanti, Emanuele Marzetti,Marco Giordano, Francesco Falciglia and Lorenzo Aulisa, Scoliosis 2014 9:3 DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-9-3