Doctors conducting surgery

BACK AND NECK BRACES

Spine disorders often require back supports to assist in healing.  This page will discuss several common types of back supports and the purpose for which there use.

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Back and Neck Braces

Back BraceFor those diagnosed with a spinal disorder, deformity, or potential problem, a back brace can help the healing process.  Therefore, a doctor may recommend the use of a back or neck brace as a safe, non-invasive way to prevent future problems or to help patients heal from a current condition.

The use of braces by spine patients became a widely accepted and effective tool in the treatment of spine disorders centuries ago.  In fact, more than 99% of orthopedic doctors advocate using them.

in fact, braces are really nothing new and they have actually been around for centuries.  For instance, Lumbosacral corsets (for the lower back) were used as far back as 2000 B.C.!   Also, bandage and splint braces were used in 500 A.D. in an effort to correct scoliosis (a spine with a sideways curve).  Recently, braces have become a popular way to actually help prevent primary and secondary lower back pain from ever occurring.

Braces

 

Questions and Answers

 

How long do I need to wear the back or neck brace after spine surgery?

The duration of brace wear varies depending on the type of surgery performed and the surgeon’s recommendations. In some cases, the surgeon will recommend a brace be used for a few weeks to several months. The purpose of the brace is to provide support, restrict movement, and promote proper healing of the spine. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding the duration of brace use.  He will also provide any guidelines for gradually reducing or discontinuing its use.

Can I take off the back or neck brace for certain activities?

The brace will stabilize the spine and facilitate healing.  The patient should wear it all the time. However, with the doctor’s permission, the patient can temporarily remove it for specific activities. Your surgeon will provide guidelines on when it can be removed, such as during bathing or specific exercises. Patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions to ensure the spine remains adequately supported and protected during the recovery period.

What should I do if the back or neck brace becomes uncomfortable or causes skin irritation?

Patients will experience some discomfort or skin irritation when wearing a back or neck brace. If you experience excessive discomfort or notice skin redness, irritation, or sores, call our office for advice to make it more comfortable.  We can assess the fit and provide recommendations on adjustments or alternative options to ensure your comfort and prevent complications.

Doctors prescribe sacroiliac belt Neck braces to provide stability of the cervical spine after neck surgery, a trauma to the neck, or as an alternative to surgery.  You most commonly see people wearing these types of braces.  Doctors typically prescribe the following bracing:

Boston Brace

This brace, also called TLSO, covers the torso from the armpits to the hips and corrects spine position while aiming to prevent curve progression, primarily used during the day.

Charleston Bending Brace

  • Purpose: Primarily used for scoliosis curve correction at night.
  • Design: This brace is designed to over-correct the spinal curve by bending the torso in the opposite direction of the curve.
  • Usage: Patients wear it while sleeping for maximum efficacy, making daily activities more comfortable without brace interference.

Corsets

Corsets provide rigidity and support for the back and they can vary in length.  Depending upon the patient’s condition, doctors prescribe a shorter or longer corset.  Meanwhile, doctors prescribe the short corset for low back pain, while a longer one for problems in the mid to lower thoracic spine.  When people think of corsets, they usually conjure up images of women from earlier centuries who used them to make their waists look smaller.  Today, in the treatment of back problems, corsets refer to a type of back brace that extends over the buttocks and is held up by shoulder straps. 

Halo

The Halo brace refers to the most rigid cervical brace that Immobilizes the head and neck.  For unstable cervical fractures or complex cervical spine surgery, doctors use this brace.  The halo device has a titanium ring (halo) that goes around your head, secured to the skull by four metal pins.  Then the ring attaches by four bars to a vest worn on the chest.  Meanwhile, a vest provides the stability to hold the ring and neck steadily in place.  For the spine to heal, patients will wear the Halo for 24 hours a day.

Hyperextension Braces

This brace prevents bending and often doctors prescribe this brace to treat frontal compression fractures that have occurred around the junction of the thoracic and lumbar spine.  Thus, scoliosis patients can also use the brace for post-surgery healing from a spinal fusion. Finally, these braces offer support that allows anterior (front) pressure unloading of the thoracic vertebrae by restricting flexion (bending) of the thoracic and lumbar spine.

Specifically, hyperextension braces have a front rectangular metal frame that puts pressure over the upper sternum and the pubis/pubic bone.  Additionally, this encourages spinal extension and applies pressure over the T-10 level (the tenth vertebra in your thoracic spine).  The braces offer “three-point stabilization” to the spine through a front abdominal pad, a chest pad, and a rear pad at the level of the fracture.

By the brace applying pressure in three points – sternal, pubis, and rear Lumbosacral – the spine becomes extended and stretched.   A narrow, flat bone in the front middle of the thorax refers to the sternum.  The thorax refers to the portion of the body between the base of the neck and the lower diaphragm. The most common types of Hyperextension Braces are Knight Taylor and Jewett.

Lifting Belts

To prevent injury when lifting heavy objects, these belts reduce low back strain and muscle strain.  To use the belt, it circles the waist, covering the lumbar region of the spine, and closes in front.  Also, these belts are usually made of cloth or canvas and some models have lordosis pads.

Molded Jackets

These jackets are designed to distribute pressure widely over a large area.  By immobilizing the patient from the neck to the hips, the pressure becomes evenly distributed, taking excess pressure off overloaded or unstable areas. For example, these jackets were originally made using plaster of paris, but now they are made out of molded plastic.

Milwaukee Brace

  • Purpose: Used to treat high thoracic curves that other braces cannot address.
  • Design: It features a neck ring connected to a full-torso brace, making it more comprehensive.
  • Usage: This brace requires careful customization to ensure effectiveness and worn under clothing despite its more extensive structure.

Nighttime Scoliosis Brace

Worn during sleep, this brace helps moderate curves, providing flexibility during the day and support at night.

Philadelphia Collar

With a front and back piece that attaches with Velcro on the sides, this brace provides a more rigid/stiff collar.  Also, patients will wear this brace for 24 hours a day until their doctor instructs them to remove it.  In addition, this collar provides stability for a cervical (upper spine) fracture, cervical fusion surgery, or a cervical strain.

Rigid Braces

If patients require greater rigidity to support the spine because of low back pain and instability, doctors will prescribe stiff braces.  For instance, these braces usually consist of rear uprights that contour to the lumbar (lower) spine and pelvis, along with thoracic bands.  Additionally, there are also fabric straps on the braces that provide pressure in the front. The following identify Common types of rigid braces:

  • Williams Brace – This type of brace has no vertical uprights in the middle so that flexion/bending can occur.
  • Chair-back Brace – This type keeps the lumbar spine in a neutral position. The chair-back design prevents sideways and revolving movement of the lower spine.
  • Raney Flexion Jacket – This type prevents lumbar lordosis by holding the patient in a neutral tilt.

Rigo-Cheneau Brace

This custom-made brace corrects in 3D and is known for treating scoliosis effectively by considering the patient’s unique curve characteristics.

Sacroiliac and Lumbosacral Belts

To stabilize the lower back, this belt consists of heavy cotton and is reinforced by lightweight stays.  Furthermore, the pressure can be adjusted through laces on the side or back of the belt.  Also, these belts range in width between 10 to 15 centimeters and 20 to 30 centimeters.  To prevent motion by putting pressure on the joints between the hipbone and sacrum (base of the spine), doctors prescribe the sacroiliac belt. 

Soft Collar

Typically used after a more rigid collar has been worn for major healing, this brace transitions to using no collar.

SpineCor Brace

  • Purpose: Provides dynamic correction by allowing movement while supporting the spinal curve.
  • Design: Made of elastic bands and plastic, it is less rigid compared to the TLSO.
  • Usage: Can be worn throughout the day without significantly restricting movement, thus allowing for more comfortable long-term wear.

Sterno-occipital mandibular Immobilization Device (SOMI

A SOMI brace holds your neck in a straight line that matches up with your spine.  Furthermore, it offers rigid support to a damaged neck and prevents the head from moving around.  With this brace, you cannot bend or twist your neck.  To enable muscles and bones to heal from injury or surgery, this device restricts motion.

If you look at what the name means, you will better understand what a SOMI does: “sterno” means your upper and middle chest, “occipital” means the base of your skull, “mandibular” refers to your jaw and chin, and “immobilization” describes the support and movement restriction the brace offers.  First, the chin piece rests on the lower jaw.  Second, the chin piece connects by straps to a headband that goes across the forehead.  Third, the chin piece connects to a chest piece by a front metal extension.  Finally, the chest piece then rests on the upper and middle chest – sort of like a vest, which connects to the occipital piece that supports the base of the head. Note that This brace provides excellent support for an injured neck.

Thoracolumbosacral Orthosis (TLSO)

  • Purpose: This brace is used to stabilize the spine and maintain an appropriate posture.
  • Design: Encompassing the thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), and sacral (base of the spine) regions, the TLSO is typically made from rigid materials.
  • Usage: It is often prescribed for adults with moderate scoliosis or following surgery to support the spine during the healing process.

Trochanteric Belts

For sacroiliac joint pain or pelvic fractures, doctors prescribe the trochanteric belt.  To wear the belt properly, it should fit around the pelvis — between the trochanter (a bony portion below the neck of your thigh bone) and the iliac (pelvis) ridges/crests.  Additionally, it measures about five to eight centimeters wide and it buckles in front, just like a regular belt.

WCR Brace

Also known as the Wilmington brace, it supports well and allows some movement, tailored to fit the patient’s specific curve type.

Wilmington Brace

Known for its open-back design, this brace enhances air circulation and comfort, minimizing skin irritation. It’s designed for treatment results and patient comfort, accommodating active patients with moderate spine curves.

The involvement of orthotics is crucial in designing these scoliosis braces to ensure effectiveness, support, alignment, and safety. Working closely with the healthcare team ensures a well-fitted brace and the choice of brace type depends on the patient’s spinal curve, goals, and treatment stage.

Key Considerations

When choosing a scoliosis brace as an adult, factors such as the severity of the curve, lifestyle, and specific medical recommendations will play a crucial role. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most appropriate brace type and ensure proper fit and maximum benefits.

Each brace type offers unique advantages, catering to different needs in managing adult scoliosis, thus improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Clinical Uses of Back and Neck Braces

The braces/supports treat low back pain, trauma, infections, muscular weakness, neck conditions, and osteoporosis.  When a condition needs treatment, braces, belts, and jackets help immobilize and support the spine.  Depending on the model used, they can put the spine in a neutral, upright, hyper-extended, flexed, or lateral-flexed position.

What Are the Main Uses of Scoliosis Braces for Adults?

Scoliosis braces serve multiple purposes for adults dealing with spinal curvature. Here are the primary uses explained:

Supportive Use

  • Stabilization: Braces provide essential support to the spine, which can help stabilize and reduce the progression of scoliosis.
  • Posture Improvement: Wearing a brace can assist in maintaining a healthier posture throughout the day.

Part-Time Use

  • Flexibility: For those who don’t need constant support, part-time use of braces offers flexibility. You can wear them during activities that put extra strain on the back.
  • Activity-Based Support: Engaging in physical activities or tasks that exacerbate scoliosis discomfort becomes manageable with periodic brace use.

Pain Relief:

  • Alleviating Discomfort: Braces can relieve pain by reducing the spinal pressure that scoliosis often causes.
  • Enhanced Mobility: With pain under control, individuals experience better mobility and increased comfort in daily activities.

Through supportive, part-time use, and pain relief, scoliosis braces play a pivotal role in improving the quality of life for adults with this condition.

How Does a Corrective Brace Work for Adults with Scoliosis?

A corrective brace for adults with scoliosis functions differently compared to traditional support braces. Rather than merely holding the spine in place, these braces actively work to adjust the spinal curvature.

Mechanism of Action

Corrective braces exert a gentle pushing force on the spine, encouraging it to move toward a more natural alignment. This pressure is strategically applied to specific areas, promoting gradual correction of the curvature without compressing the torso.

Benefits Over Traditional Braces

  • Reduced Wear Time: Because the brace pushes instead of squeezes, patients typically need to wear it for shorter periods each day.
  • Faster Results: The active correction promotes quicker and more noticeable improvements, reducing the overall duration needed for treatment.
  • No Muscle Atrophy: Traditional braces can lead to muscle weakness due to constant squeezing. In contrast, the corrective approach maintains muscle strength, as the brace does not impede natural movement.

By using these targeted forces, a corrective brace can efficiently and effectively reduce spinal curvature in adults with scoliosis, leading to better outcomes without the drawbacks of traditional supportive braces.

What are the Key Differences Between Generic and 3-Dimensional Back Braces?

When it comes to addressing scoliosis, not all back braces are created equal. Here, we’ll break down the key differences between generic and 3-dimensional back braces to help you make an informed decision.

Generic Back Braces

  • Not Scoliosis-Specific: Generic braces are generally designed to alleviate minor back pain and do not cater to the complexities of spinal curvature.
  • Inconsistent Quality: Since these are often mass-produced with cost-saving measures, the quality can vary significantly. One brace may not perform as well as another, leading to inconsistent results.
  • Limited Support: Generic braces are typically 2-dimensional, which means they lack the structural design needed to provide adequate spinal support for scoliosis patients.

3-Dimensional Back Braces

  • Custom-Fitted Design: Each 3-dimensional brace is tailored to fit the patient’s unique body shape, using data from a comprehensive structural scan. This ensures a precise fit that generic options can’t match.
  • Enhanced Support: These braces offer more robust support, helping to alleviate pain and aid in spinal realignment. The 3-dimensional design is specifically engineered to address the structural challenges posed by scoliosis.
  • Higher Cost, Greater Benefit: While 3-dimensional braces come with a higher price tag, they offer a level of effectiveness and customization that generic braces cannot provide. The investment is often worth it for the specialized care they deliver.

In summary, if you’re dealing with scoliosis, a 3-dimensional brace offers customized support and effectiveness that generic options simply can’t match. The tailored fit and enhanced support can make a substantial difference in managing both pain and spinal alignment.

The Benefits of Using a 3-Dimensional Scoliosis Brace

When it comes to treating scoliosis, a 3-dimensional scoliosis brace offers a range of benefits that can drastically improve your quality of life. While it might require a higher initial investment, the long-term advantages often outweigh the costs.

Custom Fit for Optimal Support

A key advantage of a 3-dimensional scoliosis brace is its custom fit. Unlike generic braces, these are meticulously designed to match the unique size, shape, and curvature of your spine. Advanced structural scanners are employed to create a brace that fits you as precisely as a custom-tailored garment, ensuring optimal support and comfort.

Durability and Longevity

Another significant benefit is the durability of these braces. Made to withstand long-term wear, a 3-dimensional brace can often be used throughout the entire treatment and recovery process. This means that the initial investment you make will serve you well for years, providing consistent support as you heal.

Pain Reduction and Spinal Realignment

One of the most compelling reasons to choose a 3-dimensional scoliosis brace is its ability to reduce pain and assist in realigning the spine. Unlike generic braces, these offer support from all angles, helping to guide your spine into a healthier alignment. This simultaneous pain relief and structural support make it a powerful tool in scoliosis treatment.

Precision Engineering with Mirror Imaging

High-quality 3-dimensional braces use mirror imaging technology to precisely address spinal misalignments. By identifying the specific areas of concern, the brace can exert an opposing force to correct these issues. This level of precision not only aids in spinal correction but also minimizes discomfort.

Facilitation of Daily Activities

A well-fitted 3-dimensional brace can significantly improve your ability to perform everyday tasks. Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and even household chores become more manageable. This functionality allows you to maintain a sense of normalcy and independence, despite your condition.

Peace of Mind

Lastly, using a 3-dimensional scoliosis brace provides peace of mind. Knowing that you are wearing a highly effective medical device designed to treat your specific condition reduces the need for frequent doctor’s visits. This not only saves you time but also reduces stress and worry about your spinal health.

In summary, the benefits of using a 3-dimensional scoliosis brace are manifold. From its custom fit and durability to its pain-relief capabilities and precision engineering, this brace stands out as a superior option for those seeking comprehensive scoliosis treatment.

Goals of Spinal Bracing

Bracing will help control pain, reduce the chance of further injury, and allow healing to take place. In addition, they will compensate for muscle weakness, prevent or correct a deformity, and greatly assist patients.  More specifically, lumbar corsets and braces compress the abdomen, which increases the intra-abdominal pressure.  This act allows pressure on the vertebral column to unload, providing some relief.

When addressing adult scoliosis with bracing, doctors will prioritize several key objectives:

  • Alleviate Pain: The primary aim is to provide consistent relief from the chronic pain associated with adult scoliosis.
  • Offer Support: Braces must support the spine effectively, maintaining proper alignment to prevent further curvature.
  • Minimize Curve Progression: Reducing the progression of the spinal curve can prevent future complications and improve quality of life.

By targeting these goals, doctors can take a comprehensive approach to manage adult scoliosis effectively.

Do Scoliosis Braces Work for Adults?

Scoliosis braces can indeed play a role in treatment for adults, but they are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan. Unlike in children, where bracing can sometimes halt or slow the progression of a curvature, adult scoliosis typically requires a multifaceted approach.

Professional Guidance is Crucial

You should only use a back brace to treat scoliosis pain if the brace is recommended by a medical professional. While generic back braces found online may provide temporary pain relief, they will only worsen your scoliosis in the long run. Consulting with healthcare providers ensures that the brace is tailored to your specific condition and needs, providing the most effective support.

The Importance of a Combined Treatment Strategy

For adults, a brace alone is usually insufficient to reduce a spinal curve significantly. However, when combined with other treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and specific exercise regimens, braces can help manage symptoms and improve posture. This comprehensive approach is crucial for addressing the structural aspects of scoliosis.

To see even more fantastic results, consider incorporating the following additional therapies:

  • Proper Sleep: Ensuring quality sleep can significantly impact overall health and well-being, which in turn supports recovery and management of scoliosis.
  • Exercise: Engaging in regular, targeted exercises can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, aiding in better posture and reduced discomfort.
  • Inversion Therapies: Techniques such as inversion tables and specific chiropractic adjustments have been proven to help with scoliosis by alleviating pressure on the spine.

By integrating these therapies with the use of a back brace, individuals can adopt a more holistic approach to managing scoliosis, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of their treatment plan.

Factors Influencing Effectiveness

Several factors can influence the effectiveness of scoliosis braces in adults:

  • Proper Design and Fit: Custom-designed braces that fit well are crucial. Off-the-shelf options might not provide the necessary support and alignment.
  • Combination with Other Treatments: Pairing bracing with therapies like the Schroth Method or spinal adjustments can enhance overall outcomes.
  • Consistency: Regular use and adherence to the prescribed treatment plan are essential for seeing results.

Realistic Expectations

It’s important to have realistic expectations. While braces can aid in symptom management and possibly prevent further progression, they are not a cure-all. Adults considering bracing should consult with their healthcare providers to design a personalized, effective treatment strategy tailored to their specific needs.

By integrating bracing into a broader treatment regimen, adults with scoliosis can experience a reduction in pain, improved alignment, and better overall quality of life.

Is a Back Brace Enough to Fix Scoliosis on Its Own?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a back brace that’s been invented that can completely cure scoliosis on its own. However, with the support of advanced braces, patients may notice a dramatic reduction in pain caused by pressure and misalignment.

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to incorporate additional therapies such as:

  • Proper sleep
  • Regular exercise
  • Inversion therapies (like chiropractic care)

Usage Guidelines

Patients should avoid wearing braces all day long in most cases, as this can cause your body to rely on them too much. The doctor or member of his staff will advise the patient as to the length of time and the tightness of the brace worn.  Once you know your personal requirements, a good brace can be a major contributing factor to your recovery process. By integrating bracing into a broader treatment regimen, adults with scoliosis can experience a reduction in pain, improved alignment, and better overall quality of life.

When are Braces Effective for Scoliosis Treatment in Patients Who Have Not Reached Skeletal Maturity?

Braces are an effective treatment for patients with scoliosis who are still growing and have not yet reached skeletal maturity. They are typically recommended for children whose spinal curves are between 25 and 40 degrees to help prevent further curve progression. To achieve the best results, it is crucial that the brace fits properly and is worn for 16 to 23 hours a day until the child stops growing. Various styles of braces are available, some newer designs offering under-arm fitting rather than around the neck, enhancing comfort without sacrificing efficacy.

However, braces shouldn’t be worn all day long in most cases, as this can cause your body to rely on them too much. The length of time, as well as the tightness of the brace, should be determined by a medical professional who specializes in scoliosis treatments. It is important to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure that the brace is used effectively and safely, preventing potential issues from overuse.
By adhering to these guidelines and consulting with a specialist, patients can optimize their treatment outcomes while minimizing any negative side effects.

Recent large-scale studies have shown that with stringent adherence to the prescribed wearing schedule, braces effectively halt the progression of spinal curvature in approximately 80% of kids with scoliosis.  Regular adjustments by a doctor are necessary to ensure the brace continues to fit well as the child grows.

When considering treatment options for adult scoliosis, it’s crucial to compare the outcomes and risks of surgery and bracing to make an informed decision.

Scoliosis Surgery

Outcomes:  Spinal fusion surgery aims to correct spinal curvature using rods and screws, maintaining a straighter alignment. The primary goal is to prevent further spine curvature progression by creating internal support. There are risks involved:

  • Invasiveness: Surgery is highly invasive, involving significant recovery time.
  • Permanent Results: The outcome is permanent; adjustments aren’t possible without additional surgeries.
  • Complications: Potential for infection, nerve damage, or the need for further operations if the initial surgery doesn’t yield the desired results.

Bracing for Scoliosis

Outcomes:  Bracing offers a non-invasive alternative, aiming first to reduce spinal curvature and then maintain that correction. Modern braces are designed to be comfortable and less visible under clothing. There are minimal risks:

  • Adjustability: If the brace doesn’t deliver the expected results, it can be adjusted or redesigned without the need for additional invasive procedures.
  • Lifestyle Flexibility: Braces can be removed, allowing for a more flexible lifestyle compared to the permanent changes from surgery.

Comparative Summary

  • Safety: Bracing carries significantly fewer risks than surgery.
  • Flexibility: Adjustments to the treatment plan are simpler and non-invasive with bracing.
  • Cost: Bracing is typically more affordable than surgery, making it a more accessible option for many patients.
  • Strength and Longevity: Bracing helps maintain the spine’s natural strength and longevity without the complications associated with invasive surgical procedures.

In conclusion, both surgical and non-surgical treatments aim to correct spinal curvature.  Bracing provides a less risky, adjustable, and often more effective solution for many adults with scoliosis.

Conclusion on the Efficacy of Scoliosis Bracing for Adults

The effectiveness of scoliosis bracing for adults revolves around achieving consistent pain relief, providing support, and reducing spinal curvature.

Traditional bracing for adults is often underutilized, not due to its ineffectiveness, but because of the limitations of older brace designs, like the Boston brace. Modern options, such as the Charleston bending brace and thoracic lumbar sacral orthosis (TLSO), are designed specifically to manage and support spinal curves, offering viable solutions for those seeking pain relief and structural support.

The efficacy of a scoliosis brace greatly depends on its ability to correct rather than just hold the spine. Braces that merely squeeze the spine aim to halt further curvature, while those that actively push and then hold the spine in a reduced state address the structural deformity more effectively.

Traditional approaches to adult bracing primarily focus on halting progression. However, conservative treatments aim to stabilize, reduce, and maintain the reduction of the spinal curvature. These methods strive to address the underlying structural issues rather than just the symptoms. Combining modern bracing techniques with complementary treatments, such as chiropractic care and rehabilitation, can yield significant improvements, demonstrating the potential of an integrated approach to managing adult scoliosis.

Benefits of Using a Corrective Brace Over Scoliosis Surgery

When considering treatment options for adult scoliosis, using a corrective brace presents several advantages over spinal fusion surgery.

Non-Invasive Approach

Corrective bracing is a non-invasive treatment, meaning there are no surgical incisions, rods, or screws required. This significantly reduces the risks associated with invasive procedures such as infection, nerve damage, and the potential need for additional surgeries if complications arise.

Flexibility and Adjustability

One of the primary benefits of a corrective brace is its flexibility. Unlike spinal fusion surgery, which offers a permanent and unchangeable outcome, a brace can be adjusted or modified as needed. If the initial results are not satisfactory, the brace can be tweaked to better suit the patient’s needs, providing a personalized approach to treatment.

Dynamic Treatment Effect

Corrective braces work by applying external forces to the spine.  They hold the spine in a straight position and actively reduce the curvature. Surgery, on the other hand, primarily aims to stop progression without altering existing curvature. The brace first targets curvature reduction and then maintains that improvement, resulting in a dynamic and proactive treatment.

Lifestyle Compatibility

Bracing offers a distinct advantage when it comes to lifestyle. Adults can remove the brace at specific times to engage in various activities, providing a higher quality of life and fewer restrictions. Surgery, however, results in permanent changes to the spine, limiting mobility and the ability to revert or adjust the treatment if complications arise.

Reduced Risk of Complications

Corrective braces come with far fewer risks compared to surgery. Since there are no surgical procedures involved, patients avoid complications like blood loss, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and prolonged recovery times. Should the bracing treatment not yield the desired results, doctors can make adjustments without resorting to additional invasive procedures.

Affordability

The cost of spinal fusion surgery without insurance is very high, often involving hospital stays, surgical fees, and lengthy rehabilitation. Corrective bracing is generally more affordable and does not require extensive medical care post-treatment. This makes it a more accessible option for many patients.

Strength and Longevity of the Spine

By focusing on curvature reduction and maintaining spinal strength, corrective braces help preserve the natural structure and function of the spine. This holistic approach promotes long-term spinal health.  On the other hand, surgery may compromise spinal strength due to the fusion of vertebrae.

In summary, corrective braces offer a safer, more flexible, and cost-effective solution for managing scoliosis in adults. They provide a less invasive approach with fewer complications, allowing for adjustments and a higher quality of life.

Possible Drawbacks of Back and Neck Braces

Although bracing primarily provides positive results, with long-term use, it can lead to a loss of muscle function, due to inactivity.  Bracing can sometimes lead to psychological addiction so even when the patient is healed and ready to stop using a back brace, he or she feels dependent upon it for physical support.

Schedule Your Consultation Today with a Doctor From the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute

Finally, the board-certified experts at Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute will provide the right spinal care and treatment to improve your quality of life. Schedule your consultation today by calling 214-556-0555. Patients should choose to seek treatment for scoliosis pain at specialized centers that offer expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Such centers like the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute with offices in DallasPlano, and Frisco, Texas offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, which involves a team of specialists, including orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and pain management specialists.

Additionally, the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute offers access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.  For example, minimally invasive surgery and spinal fusion. Patients may also benefit from a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their unique needs and medical history. Ultimately, the decision to seek treatment at a particular medical institution will depend on various factors, but for those wanting to get the very best treatment and care, the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute should remain your first choice.

If you or a loved one suffers from spinal pain, you owe it to yourself to call Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute at 214-556-0555 to make an appointment.

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