Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

During the first appointment, your orthotist will ask about your symptoms and clinical history, take scans, photographs and measurements of your back and discuss the treatment options that may be suitable for you. Patients should upload a recent out-of-brace X-ray through the patient consent form before attending. LOC currently asks for X-rays that are no more than three months old.

In-brace correction describes the change in the position of the spine while the scoliosis brace is being worn. This may be assessed using clinical imaging, arranged with an independent imaging provider. It measures the immediate effect of the brace but does not guarantee that the same correction will remain after the brace is removed or at the end of treatment. Results vary depending on factors including curve type, growth stage and wear time.

The length of scoliosis bracing treatment varies from patient to patient and will depend on factors including age, skeletal maturity, growth and the individual curve. Some growing patients may need more than one brace during treatment as they outgrow their original brace. Your orthotist will discuss this with you during the assessment and monitor your progress through regular review appointments.

If we use the evidence available to us, there is a strong connection between hours of brace use and final outcomes. Therefore, ‘gold standard’ bracing typically would involve full-time brace use (22-23 hours per day). That said, there is no single wear schedule that is suitable for every patient. If bracing is recommended, your orthotist will prescribe an individual brace-wearing schedule based on your curve, age, growth and treatment needs. Any concerns or changes to the recommended schedule should be discussed with your orthotist.

Scoliosis bracing may be considered for children and young people who are at risk of curve progression, who have symptoms secondary to their scoliosis, or those who would like to improve cosmetic/postural concerns. We can also brace adults where indicated. Suitability depends on factors including age, skeletal maturity, the size and pattern of the curve and the available clinical information. An individual assessment is needed to determine whether bracing, observation, specialist scoliosis-specific exercise therapy or a combination of approaches may be appropriate.

This varies from person to person.

Your recommended wear time will depend on your age, symptoms, spinal shape, growth stage and treatment goals. Your orthotist will give you clear guidance on how often to wear your brace and how to build up wear time safely.

It is helpful to bring any X-rays, EOS scans, reports or consultant letters you already have.

We do not diagnose kyphosis, but this information can help us understand your spinal shape and plan your orthotic treatment. If further imaging or medical assessment is needed, we’ll explain this during your appointment.

This depends on your age, the type of kyphosis, the flexibility of the curve and whether your spine is still growing.

Bracing is usually more effective during growth. In adults, a brace is less likely to change the structure of the spine, but it may help support posture, comfort and movement. We’ll always explain what outcomes may be realistic for you.

A brace may help some people with kyphosis, depending on their age, spinal shape, symptoms and whether they are still growing.
For children and teenagers, bracing may help support posture and manage the risk of the curve getting worse, where clinically appropriate. For adults, bracing is usually used to support posture, comfort and day-to-day function.
Your orthotist will explain whether bracing may be suitable after assessment.

Lower limb splints, also known as orthoses, are devices designed to support and stabilise the legs. They can:

• Enhance joint stability: By providing external support, splints can reduce unwanted movement.
•  Improve walking patterns: Proper alignment can lead to a more natural gait.
•  Reduce pain and fatigue: Supporting the limbs can alleviate strain on muscles and joints.

Our team specialises in creating custom lower limb orthotics tailored to individual needs. For more information on our services, please visit our bespoke page.

Clubfoot can lead to walking difficulties due to abnormal foot positioning. Challenges may include:
– Limited range of motion: The foot may have restricted movement, affecting gait.
– Pain or discomfort: Improper alignment can cause strain during walking.
– Balance issues: The altered foot structure may impact stability.

Treatment options focus on correcting foot alignment and improving function:
– Bespoke orthotic devices: Custom-made braces can support proper foot positioning.
– Specialised footwear: Shoes designed to accommodate and support the foot’s shape.
– Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles and enhance mobility.

Our clinic provides comprehensive care for individuals with clubfoot. Learn more about our approach on our club foot treatment page.

Muscular dystrophy (MD) encompasses a group of conditions that cause progressive muscle weakness, impacting walking and overall mobility. Individuals with MD may experience:

– Difficulty with balance and coordination: Muscle weakness can lead to unsteady gait and increased risk of falls.
– Fatigue during movement: Reduced muscle strength can make walking more tiring.
– Joint instability: Weak muscles may not adequately support joints, leading to discomfort.

While our website does not provide specific information on muscular dystrophy, our orthotic services aim to support individuals with various neuromuscular conditions. Contact us for more information on how we can assist with mobility challenges.

You may notice changes in chest shape during adolescence as the body grows. After skeletal maturity, the shape of the chest wall often stabilises.

If you have concerns, an orthotic assessment can help you understand whether treatment options may be appropriate at your stage of development.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can affect muscle strength, coordination, and balance, leading to challenges with walking. To manage these difficulties:

1. Engage in physiotherapy: Targeted exercises can improve strength and coordination.

2. Consider bespoke orthotics: Custom orthotic devices can support weakened muscles, improve balance, and enhance mobility.

3. Implement fatigue management strategies: Planning activities and incorporating rest periods can help conserve energy.

Our team offers tailored orthotic solutions to address the unique mobility challenges associated with MS. Discover more on our Multiple sclerosis treatment page.

If you have hypermobility, your joints move beyond the typical range, which can lead to instability and increase the risk of injury in everyday activities like walking. To help prevent injuries:

1. Wear supportive footwear: Shoes that provide adequate support can complement the benefits of orthotics.

2. Engage in appropriate exercises: Strengthening and conditioning exercises tailored to your needs can enhance joint stability.

3. Use bespoke orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can stabilise your joints, improve alignment, and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments.

Our clinicians can assess your gait and provide personalised orthotic solutions to support your mobility and reduce discomfort. Learn more about how we can help on our Hypermobility page.

Flat head syndrome, medically known as positional plagiocephaly, occurs when a baby’s head develops a flat area due to consistent pressure on one part of the skull. This can happen if a baby spends a lot of time lying on their back or in one position. It does not usually cause pain, but an early orthotic review can help you understand possible next steps, including whether repositioning may still be appropriate or whether helmet therapy may be an orthotic treatment option.

Early signs of plagiocephaly include:

• A noticeable flat spot on the back or side of the head
• Uneven positioning of the ears
• Facial asymmetry
• A bulging forehead on one side

If you notice any of these signs and feel concerned, our orthotic team can help you understand the possible next steps. Head shape often responds best to orthotic treatment while babies are still growing quickly, which is why families often seek advice between four and seven months of age. We offer a free flat head photo assessment form, where an orthotist can review your baby’s head shape and advise whether an in-person orthotic assessment may be helpful.

If you’re experiencing back pain due to scoliosis, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. At LOC, we offer we offer orthotic consultations to review whether bracing may form part of your management plan, which may include onward referral to a physiotherapy team or the use of our brace designed to help manage the curve.

Our goal is to support curve management, help reduce discomfort where present, and reduce the risk of further progression where possible.

Certain exercises may exacerbate scoliosis symptoms by placing undue stress on the spine. This needs careful clinical assessment.

Where appropriate, we may suggest general postural exercises or coordinate with physiotherapy colleagues to ensure exercise advice is tailored to your individual needs.

To keep your baby’s LOCband helmet clean and comfortable:

•  use the cleaning fluid provided or a mild soap with water.
• gently wipe the inside and outside surfaces with a soft cloth.
• ensure the helmet is completely dry before placing it back on your baby’s head.

Regular cleaning helps maintain hygiene and ensures your baby’s comfort during treatment.

Treatment duration varies between individuals depending on factors such as age, chest wall flexibility and brace wear.

Some patients may complete treatment within several months, while others may require a longer period. Wearing the brace as advised may support better outcomes.

Some patients may experience mild skin irritation or bruising, particularly in the early stages of treatment.

This should be monitored by your orthotist. If you notice significant discomfort, bruising, or skin changes, you should contact your orthotist, as the brace may need adjustment.

The main difference is in how they’re made and how precise they can be:
• 3D-printed insoles: These are made using advanced scanning and printing technology. We take a 3D scan of your feet to capture every detail, including the contours, pressure points, and alignment. The insoles are then printed layer by layer to fit your feet perfectly. This process means they’re incredibly accurate and designed specifically for you, which makes them great for treating certain conditions and providing maximum comfort.
• Traditionally made insoles: These are usually created using hand-moulding techniques or foam impressions of your feet. While they can be customised to a certain extent, they do not offer the same level of precision or tailoring as 3D-printed insoles.

Proprioceptive insoles are designed to stimulate nerve clusters in the feet, improving balance and coordination. These are particularly helpful for patients with neurological conditions. If you think proprioceptive insoles might be right for you, we’d be happy to discuss this option further.