Orthoses and scoliosis treatment
From back braces to wrist splints: how the trade functions beyond prosthetics
Where a prosthesis replaces a missing body part, an orthosis is a splint or corset that supports, relieves or corrects a body part that is still there but does not function optimally. Orthoses come in many forms: from a simple wrist splint to a full back corset worn around the clock for several years. What is common to them is that they must be designed and fitted precisely to the individual body and the purpose they are to fulfil.
§What is an orthosis?
The most common orthotics include spinal orthotics to support or correct the spine knee orthotics to stabilize or relieve the knee wrist splints to limit movement during overload and ankle-foot orthotics (AFO) that support the foot and ankle in users with reduced muscle control during gait. The choice of orthotic depends on which function is missing and how much support or correction the body part needs.
§The scoliosis brace as an example
One of the most well-known examples of an orthosis is the back corset for treating scoliosis a lateral curvature of the spine. The Boston corset is highlighted by the Danish Scoliosis Association as the most widespread corset for idiopathic scoliosis here and it is typically a 24-hour corset worn up to 23 hours a day. There are also variants such as the Boston Night Brace which is only worn at night and is based on a more powerful overcorrection in a shorter period at a time.
- 01The user's age and how much the body has left to grow
- 02The degree of curvature, often measured as the Cobb angle
- 03How fast the condition develops, especially in puberty
- 04The user's ability and motivation to wear the corset as agreed
| Orthoses are splints and corsets that support, relieve or correct a body part that is still there but is not functioning optimally. The article uses the scoliosis corset as an example and reviews types of orthoses, what determines treatment choice, and why adjustment is a fixed part of the work. | Purpose | Example of use situation. |
|---|---|---|
| Back brace (Boston) | Brake development of scoliosis in a growing back | Teenager in growth |
| Knee orthosis | Stabilize or relieve the joint | After injury or from wear-related damage |
| Wrist brace | Restrict movement and unload | Overload or rheumatic complaints |
| Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) | Supporting foot and ankle in gait. | Reduced muscle control |
§Acclimatization is part of the work
When a corset or other orthosis is made, the work doesn't stop there. In scoliosis treatment, the patient is often admitted briefly in connection with adjustment, where both removal and fitting and gradual ramping up of wear time are practiced, often in cooperation with the hospital's department. The orthopedist typically follows up periodically, both to check the fit and to adjust the corset as the body changes or treatment progresses.
“An orthosis only works if it both fits the body and is used as intended.”
— Professional basic rule.