Patient will have appointment made with the orthotist, who is experienced and precise in brace design and fabrication.

The brace has paddings on the inner surface to apply force on the spine to counteract the curve.

Based on the standing and supine x-rays, computer software is used to design the brace most suitable and comfortable for the patients.

After the brace is fabricated, correct fitting of the brace will be checked through an x-ray and further adjustment is performed by the orthotist to ensure the ease and comfort of brace-wear throughout the entire brace period.

The orthotist will give clear and detailed instructions on how to put on and take off the brace, how to take care of the brace, the number of hours needed to wear the brace.

Each brace usually has a body temperature sensor embeded on the inner surface for the evaluation of how compliant a patient has been in terms of brace-wear. The orthotist and specialist can advise further on the progress of brace treatment and on how well the brace-wear has been based on this information.

Credit: Prosthetic and Orthotic Department, Duchess of Kent Children’s Hospital