Overview
Bracing with a TLSO (thoracic–lumbar–sacral orthosis) is a standard, non-surgical treatment for scoliosis in children and adolescents who are still growing. The main goal is to prevent the spinal curve from progressing to the point that surgery is recommended, typically around a 50° Cobb angle.
How scoliosis bracing works
A scoliosis brace is a custom-fitted TLSO that wraps around the torso. Strategically placed pads apply gentle, targeted pressure to guide the spine toward a straighter position while growth plates are still open. Relief areas are built into the brace so the body can move toward those spaces as it corrects.
Consistency matters: bracing is most effective when worn for the number of hours prescribed by your physician (often 16–18 hours per day for full-time braces, or all night for nighttime-only designs).
Who is a candidate?
- Children & teens still growing with curves often between 20° and 50° Cobb angle, depending on age and recent progression.
- Decisions are based on skeletal maturity (how much growth is left), recent curve progression on X-rays, and curve pattern.
- Adults: braces generally will not correct a curve, but may sometimes be used for part-time wear to help with pain or support, under physician guidance.
Types of TLSO scoliosis braces
Your physician will determine which brace style is appropriate based on your child’s curve pattern. Below are the three primary designs we utilize:
Boston Brace (TLSO)
The most commonly used scoliosis brace. Custom-molded plastic shell with internal pads designed to apply corrective pressure.
Providence Nighttime Brace
Worn only during sleep. Applies “over-correction” forces while lying down, often used for specific curve patterns.
Rigo-Cheneau TLSO
Custom, asymmetric design with targeted pressure and built-in expansion areas for modern curve correction.
Wear schedule & follow-up
How often are follow-up visits?
Follow-up visits are typically scheduled every 6-months to monitor fit, skin, comfort, and X-ray changes, with additional visits during growth spurts or if concerns arise. After you receive your brace, your physician will also order an X-ray with the brace on to confirm that it is working effectively.
At each visit, our team checks the brace pads, straps, and trim lines, and we review how the brace is being tolerated at home and at school. Adjustments are made as your child grows so the brace continues to fit and work correctly.
Anatomy of scoliosis
The spine is a stacked column of 24 vertebrae (bones) separated by intervertebral discs and supported by facet joints. From the front or back, a healthy spine looks straight; from the side, it has gentle natural curves.
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional curve of the spine, often “C” or “S” shaped, involving side-to-side deviation and vertebral rotation. Screening often includes the Adam’s Forward Bend Test to look for rib-cage or back asymmetry.
The Cobb angle, measured on X-ray, is used to diagnose scoliosis (≥10°) and track whether a curve is stable or progressing.
Why families choose Falk for scoliosis bracing
Falk Prosthetics & Orthotics Inc. is recognized as one of the top providers in the country, trusted by families and physicians for our expertise in treating children and teens.
- Specialized scoliosis expertise: Decades of focused TLSO design and fitting for children and adolescents.
- Collaborative care: We work directly with your child’s physician to review X-rays and brace goals.
- Custom, patient-focused fit: Every brace is individually crafted and fine-tuned for comfort and practicality.
- Accessible South Florida locations: Delray Beach, Jupiter, and Hollywood clinics serving families across the region.
FAQs
Will a brace straighten my child’s spine?
The goal of bracing is to stop the curve from getting worse while your child is still growing. In some cases, curves may improve slightly, but the primary aim is to avoid further progression and reduce the need for surgery.
How many hours per day does my child need to wear the brace?
Your physician will give a specific wear schedule. Full-time braces are often worn 16–18 hours per day, while some designs are for nighttime wear only. The more consistently the brace is worn as prescribed, the more effective it can be.
How often are follow-up visits?
Follow-up visits are usually scheduled about 6 months to monitor fit, skin, comfort, and X-ray changes, with additional visits during growth spurts or if concerns arise. An X-ray is also taken with the brace on after it is made to confirm that it is working effectively.
Can my child still be active and go to school?
Yes. Most children and teens continue normal school, social, and many recreational activities while wearing a brace. Our team will discuss practical tips for clothing, sitting, and movement so the brace works with your child’s lifestyle.