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View our privacy policyAlex’s experience of scoliosis bracing support
This story shares one person’s experience of scoliosis bracing. Everyone’s scoliosis is different and outcomes vary. Bracing is one part of scoliosis care and should sit alongside medical oversight, such as a spinal consultant, particularly where imaging and surgical decision-making are involved.
Alex, aged 13, was referred to us from Parkside Hospital last summer. At that time, his x-ray showed a small spinal curve. As the Cobb angle measured under 10 degrees, no bracing was recommended by his medical team.
More recent imaging later confirmed a general thoracolumbar curve, convex to the right, with a Cobb angle measured at 22 degrees. Because the curve appeared to be progressing, Alex’s specialist discussed the wider management pathway and referred him to our orthotics team to explore asymmetrical scoliosis bracing as a non-surgical management option.
Alex has been wearing his brace full time, aiming for around 22 hours per day, and has found it comfortable enough to fit around day-to-day life.
Alongside bracing, Alex has been following daily Scoliogold exercises with Scoliosis SOS, our physiotherapy partner. This forms part of his wider physiotherapy support, while we continue to focus on the orthotic bracing side of his care.
After six weeks of bracing, in-brace measurements showed an overcorrection position to -5 degrees at the time of assessment.
It’s important to note that in-brace correction reflects the position achieved while wearing the brace. It does not, on its own, predict long-term outcomes, and results vary depending on factors such as curve type, growth stage and adherence to wear time.
One additional consideration for Alex is that he has type 1 diabetes. We adjusted the brace design to accommodate his insulin pump, so it could be worn safely and comfortably as part of his day-to-day routine.
You can find out more about the visual signs of scoliosis here.
Alex will continue with brace management while he remains at higher risk of progression during growth. We will review fit, comfort and wear time regularly, and we will work alongside his medical team as needed. Bracing changes over time, particularly during growth, so ongoing review is an important part of orthotic care.
In children and young people, noticing changes early can help you get the right support. Signs to look out for include:
If you’re concerned about posture changes, or you already have a scoliosis diagnosis, please get in touch to arrange an appointment. We provide orthotic bracing management alongside your medical team. If you have an x-ray report or clinic letter, bringing that information can be helpful.
A bespoke brace can help reduce the risk of progression during growth and support curve management as part of a wider care plan. Our brace works by gently guiding your spine into a more corrective in-brace position, with follow-up and adjustments to support fit and comfort.
“LOC has been fantastic, friendly, understanding. Anna did not pull any punches about the wearing regime and gave us all the information we needed. Polly was in her brace for less than two years. LOC has provided a really incredible service.”
Zoe, Polly’s mother – Scoliosis patient (adolescent)
Speak to our team about your options, with no obligation to begin treatment.
Not sure which appointment to book?
If you can’t find a suitable appointment, please contact us and our admin team will be happy to help.
You can book a range of assessment and review appointments online, depending on the service and location that you require. If a specific appointment type is unavailable online, please contact LOC directly on [email protected] or you can call us. Unfortunately we are unable to offer fittings online at the moment.
Yes, if your previous orthotist offers online booking and has availability, you can choose to book with them again.
Please check your spam or junk folder first. If you still haven’t received a confirmation within 10 minutes, contact LOC Admin to confirm your booking via [email protected]
Yes. You can book on behalf of someone else. Please ensure the registration form includes the details of the person attending the appointment.
No account is required. Our booking process allows you to book as a guest. However, you will be asked to enter key details and complete required forms.
Most orthotic treatments are available online. If the treatment you’re looking for is not listed, please contact us directly and LOC Admin will assist you.
