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The Align Clinic Blog
​ Your Home For Orthotic and Prosthetic Knowledge

Scoliosis Bracing: Emotional Effects of Scoliosis

1/26/2022

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Over the past two years, school closures were supposed to keep the children safe from the coronavirus. However, for some children, closures have had a completely opposite effect. A recent study revealed that student anxiety and depression levels went up since lockdown.
Dealing with emotions is hard for any teenager. However, it's especially hard when that teenager is dealing with scoliosis bracing.  For many students, including myself, having to wear a brace is a constant reminder that you're different from your peers.
There are a lot of articles dealing with the physical effects of scoliosis out there. Let's discuss some of the emotional and social effects of scoliosis bracing, and see how you can help your child deal with them.
Body Image Problems
Due to the discomfort and awkwardness of scoliosis bracing, young children can develop body image problems. They may feel self-conscious about wearing a brace and begin avoiding social situations. A decline in confidence and a lack of self-esteem can happen as a consequence, especially as the brace becomes more noticeable during adolescence.
There are many ways you can help your child deal with body image problems from scoliosis bracing. First, make sure your child understands that the brace doesn't define who they are. Scoliosis is just one part of your child, not the entire person. Second, encourage them to speak with their doctor about potential weight loss options if necessary. 
Finally, help them find other outlets in life that don't involve appearance. For example, you could take up a sport together or attempt cooking lessons.
Social Isolation
Due to the nature of scoliosis surgery and recovery, many children will be forced to miss a few months of school. That can lead to social isolation when returning to school.
Since your child is already feeling isolated from wearing the brace, try to find friends in similar situations. That could mean finding a patient support group for scoliosis surgery or joining a club at school. Often, children suffering from scoliosis bracing issues won't seek out help themselves, so this is where you can be proactive in protecting their social life.
As far as how your child should react when meeting someone new, there's no exact science. However, it's important that they're honest about the situation. Your child shouldn't lie about their scoliosis, but they should also avoid talking too much about it. If your child is comfortable enough to speak on the subject, encourage them to focus on positive aspects of scoliosis bracing such as physical improvements and how it allows them to be stronger.
Self-Esteem Issues
A common misconception is that bracing alone leads to low self-esteem. Many children wearing scoliosis braces feel like their condition makes them less social and more awkward. This, in turn, can lead to low self-esteem issues.
You can help your young one deal with self-esteem issues from scoliosis bracing by making sure you are a constant source of support. During the day, talk with them about their condition and encourage them during physical therapy appointments. At night, work on strengthening your child's mental health by building up their self-esteem through compliments and doing activities they enjoy.
As far as how your child should react when meeting someone new, there's no exact science. However, it's important that they're honest about the situation. Your child shouldn't lie about their scoliosis, but they should also avoid talking too much about it. If your child is comfortable enough to speak on the subject, encourage them to focus on positive aspects of bracing such as physical improvements and how it allows them to be stronger.
Emotional Effects on Family Life
Suffering from a condition that requires bracing can also have an emotional effect on the family as a whole. Your child may become discouraged during times of scoliosis pain, leading to tension at home.
The best way you can help your family deal with the emotional effects of scoliosis bracing is to be direct and open about your feelings. Don't hide your emotions from each other, as this can lead to misunderstandings and false hope. Instead, work on communicating with one another during times of distress.
Self-Worth Issues
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While scoliosis bracing can cause self-esteem issues, it can also cause self-worth issues. Many children with scoliosis feel like their bodies will never be acceptable because of the brace.
You can help your child deal with self-worth issues by ensuring that you are a constant source of support. During the day, talk with them about their condition and encourage them during physical therapy appointments. At night, work on strengthening your child's mental health by building up their self-esteem through compliments and doing activities they enjoy.
There is no easy answer to how a child should react when meeting someone new, but many children find it easier to be straightforward from the beginning. That is especially true if the other children in their social circle already know about their condition.
Encourage your child to be honest, but not overshare. If they are comfortable enough to speak on the subject, encourage them to focus on positive aspects of scoliosis bracing such as physical improvements and how it allows them to be stronger.
Coping With the Emotional Effects of Scoliosis Bracing
Scoliosis is a condition that many children must deal with on a daily basis. Because there are no easy answers when it comes to the emotional effects of scoliosis bracing, here are some suggestions for helping your child deal with negative emotions:
  • Be there for them: Just because your child is coping well with bracing on the outside doesn't mean they are coping well on the inside. Their condition is complicated and so are their emotions. Make sure that you are there for your child throughout this process, giving them plenty of support.
  • Be honest: Don't avoid difficult conversations with your child just because it makes you uncomfortable to think about. Honesty is important in any relationship, and that includes the one you have with your child.
  • Talk about it: While scoliosis bracing can be intimidating to speak about, it can also help to clear the air between you and your child. Talk about the condition and how it affects them on a mental level to get a better understanding of what they might be going through.

Speak to a Medical Professional
Talking to a professional will help both the child and the parents cope with the challenges that come with dealing with scoliosis bracing. A medical professional can support you and your child and give you the resources you need to deal with the situation. If you need any assistance, make sure to contact the Align Clinic today and schedule an appointment. 

​
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Short Introduction to Ankle Foot Orthosis

1/19/2022

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An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) is an external biomechanical device, which uses the lower limbs to stabilize the joints, and in turn, improve the physical function of the foot and ankle. It is mainly used as a supportive device through various gait stages, by improving the patient’s range of motion (ROM). We’re going to explain everything you need to know about AFOs.
What is Foot Drop?
Foot drop is defined as a lack of ability to raise the foot high enough during walking. Ankle dorsiflexion (lifting up foot) may be limited due to muscle weakness or paralysis, or a loss of sensory function in the ankle and toes. Ankle dorsiflexion normally occurs in the first half of the stance phase as a response to heel lift during gait.
What causes foot drop? There are several causes, including:
  • Ankle injury (such as a bad sprain)
  • Ankle arthritis
  • Neurologic conditions such as Parkinson's disease.
  • Polio
  • Spinal cord injury
What Are AFO Braces?
Ankle foot orthoses are devices that help people walk more normally, safely, and comfortably. AFOs can also provide therapeutic benefits for a person recovering from an injury or a leg amputation. An AFO is used to treat foot drop. Ankle-foot orthoses include braces and shoes with built-in devices.
An AFO brace is a supportive device worn around the ankle and foot, designed to hold the foot in a normal position (or as close as possible to normal) during walking or other movements. Ankle-foot orthoses work by transferring weight from the diseased or injured part of the lower leg to the healthy part of the lower leg.
Ankle-foot orthoses can be made to fit either on your left or right foot, depending on the type of weak muscle, nerve function, and strength you have in each leg. AFOs may include a heel lift to compensate for ankle dorsiflexion (bending forward) problems.
They may also include other features to help control the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Ankle-foot orthoses do not cure diseases or injuries. However, they can improve walking ability by limiting abnormal movements in the ankle and foot.
Why do AFOs work? Ankle foot orthosis works by supporting the ankle in a neutral position during functional weight-bearing during walking, which helps increase foot clearance and allows for proper heel strike of the contralateral foot.
How Does an AFO Brace Work?
AFO braces work by decreasing muscle contractions and balancing the Ankle DRG (Dorsal Root Ganglion). Ankle foot orthosis braces also allow for wear during nighttime, which is beneficial to the patient’s sleep cycle.
Ankle foot orthosis braces are required to have an Ankle Joint Range of Motion (ROM) of at least 20-30 degrees to prevent skin breakdown. Ankle foot orthosis braces should also be durable, comfortable, easy to care for, and functional. This ensures that the brace is worn properly during ambulation.
Types of AFO BracesThere are different ankle foot orthosis braces that are created for different purposes.
  • Articulated AFO Brace
A hinged, or articulated AFO features a hinge at the ankle and a stop that allows controlled movement. Since the hinge is adjustable, your doctor can help you adjust the ROM that's provided by the brace. To add stability, the brace should be wanted with laced or velcro-closure sneakers. An articulated brace is a great choice for people dealing with lateral instability and stress fractures.
  • Dynamic AFO Brace
Ankle foot orthosis braces with a calf cuff allow the patient to perform ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion while walking, so let’s say if you have an Ankle DRG problem, then the Dynamic AFO Brace can help you walk without additional Ankle DRG pain. They also allow for nighttime use, as they can be worn under regular socks and clothing.
  • Carbon Fiber AFO Brace
Ankle foot orthosis braces that are made out of carbon fiber help provide Ankle DRG pain relief and Ankle dorsiflexion strength. They help to increase ROM as well, specifically dorsiflexion range of motion. Carbon Fiber AFO Brace is best used for DRG pain and dorsiflexion weakness.
  • Ground Reaction AFO Brace
Ground reaction ankle foot orthosis braces are also known as floor reaction braces. The interior of the brace is made out of molded plastic. The AFO's anterior shell redistributes the extension and ground reaction forces closer to the patient's knee than other braces. GRAFO is mainly used by people suffering from spinal cord and brain injuries.
How to Select the Right Type of AFO Brace
There are a lot of things to consider when selecting an AFO brace.  Every situation is different. You need to talk to your doctor first, so they can guide you through the process. Of course, there are certain things you should pay attention to, no matter how many options you have.
As you're comparing AFO braces, you need to consider:
  • How it is worn: You need to find a brace that can b worn comfortably with socks, sneakers, and boots. It needs to be easy to put on and off, especially if you're living alone.
  • Comfort levels: Ankle foot orthosis braces are meant to be worn for hours at a time, so you need to make sure it's comfortable. You don't want your Ankle DRG pain to increase because of the brace digging into your skin or restricting movement.
  • Removable parts: If the condition you're dealing with is permanent, you need to think about the eventual wear and tear. Look for an orthotic that is easy to find replacement parts for. That way, you won't need to replace the entire brace when a problem occurs.
Get Your AFO Brace as Soon as Possible!
With the right ankle foot orthosis, you will be able to walk more easily and comfortably than before. A proper AFO brace will relieve most of your symptoms and allow you to live your life to the fullest. If you need any consultation regarding AFO braces, don’t hesitate to contact the Align Clinic, talk to one of our experts. 

​
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Sports and Scoliosis Bracing: What Sports Are Safe for Your Child?

1/12/2022

1 Comment

 
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Among school-age children, scoliosis is the most common deformity. Each year, nearly 450,000 hospital visits are made by children with scoliosis. It is a serious condition that requires extensive treatment. The burden of scoliosis bracing on life quality can be severe.  
A study has shown that children with scoliosis have lower self-esteem compared to children with other common conditions. A 12-year-old child facing the possibility of being braced for life must wonder what their future holds. What sports can I play?
Days are gone when you had to sit out of all physical activities during treatment. A new generation of lighter and flexible braces is available for your child to wear during physical activities.
Benefits of Sports for Mental Health
A plethora of studies have found that active lifestyles reduce stress and contribute to mental well-being. What does scoliosis have to do with this?
Scoliosis is a physical condition that causes major debilitating pain. A scoliotic child starts to feel his scoliosis affecting his life quality at an early age. What is more worrisome than scoliosis is the possibility of being braced for life and scoliosis treatment side effects such as back pain, a rib hump, shoulder pain, headaches, and so on. The scoliosis brace can be uncomfortable to wear during physical activities.
Scoliotic children are less physically active than their peers without scoliosis. They spend more time in sedentary activities such as watching TV or playing computer games. It is not surprising then that scoliotic children have a higher body mass index (BMI) and more scoliosis treatment side effects.
However, it doesn't have to be this way. While many parents are not aware of it, there are many sports a child can enjoy, whether they are dealing with scoliosis bracing or not.
What Sports Are Safe for Scoliosis?
Cobb angles are used to determine the severity of scoliosis. The Cobb angle is measured by taking two X-ray pictures of your child's back; one while they are standing straight and another when they are bending forward. The difference between these two measurements is expressed in degrees (angle), with smaller numbers representing less severe scoliosis.
Scoliosis brace restrictions vary according to the type of scoliosis your child is dealing with:
  • Cobb angles up to 40 degrees: The main concern is that they don't cause back pain during physical activities.
  • Cobb angles of 40-50 degrees: The main concern is that they don't cause rib hump or shoulder pain during physical activities
  • Cobb angles of more than 50 degrees: The main concern is that they don't cause severe rib hump or shoulder pain.
Here are some of the sports that are generally good for children with scoliosis bracing, no matter the severity of their condition:
  • Swimming:  Aquatic activities are great for scoliosis patients. Being weightless in water helps to minimize pain and stress on the spine. Swimming also strengthens the core muscles, which help with balance and coordination. Your child may want to take swimming lessons together with their friends. It is a good way for them to stay active while still taking care of their scoliosis.
  • Soccer: Soccer is a great sport for kids with scoliosis bracing because it requires good balance and coordination. Scoliotic children tend to have poor balance and coordination, so playing soccer can help them improve these skills, which will help them not only in sports but also in their daily lives.
  • Cycling:  Cycling is another low-impact sport that helps scoliosis patients stay active. It strengthens the core muscles which help with balance and coordination as well as improving cardiovascular endurance. Cycling can also help your child with minimizing pain.
  • Yoga: Yoga is a great way to help scoliotic children improve their balance and coordination. It can also strengthen the muscles that are weakened by scoliosis bracing. What makes yoga even better is that it doesn't involve much strain on the spine, so your child's risk of getting back pain during physical activities is minimal.
Sports That Should be Avoided by Kids with Scoliosis Bracing
Some sports should be completely avoided by scoliosis patients, regardless of the severity of their condition:
  • Gymnastics, Ballet, and Dance:  These sports require your child to be in very precise positions for an extended amount of time. Any wrong move can worsen their scoliosis condition, so these activities are not the best idea.
  • Football: Scoliotic children should not play football because it requires significant physical contact. Accidentally bumping into another player or falling on the ground could make their condition worse.
  • Weightlifting: Weightlifting puts a lot of strain on your child's spine, so if they are dealing with scoliosis bracing, they should avoid this activity altogether. Even healthy children should not think about weightlifting, since it can hinder their development.
  • Basketball:  Scoliotic children should avoid playing basketball as well because it requires a lot of physical contact. A wrong move or fall can worsen their scoliosis condition.
All sports have risks involved. However, if your child is dealing with scoliosis bracing, it is important that they focus on low-impact activities to minimize their risk of back pain.
You will also want to make sure that your child wears their scoliosis brace while participating in any physical activity, even if it is low-impact. A good idea would be for your child to wear their scoliosis brace while playing these sports with their friends or siblings. That way they still get the exercise they need but make sure their scoliosis condition doesn't worsen.
Keep Your Child Active and Safe!
Whether a child or an adult is suffering from scoliosis and is in a need of scoliosis bracing, there’s no real reason why they should not participate in sports. Of course, it’s important to avoid activities that will put pressure on the spine and make the condition worse. 
It’s well worth consulting with a specialist, to make sure you’re participating in sports in a way that’s not only safe, but that will also assist your treatment. Feel free to contact the Align Clinic today via phone, email, or fax, and schedule an appointment. ​
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San Mateo, California
700 S Claremont St
Suite #105
San Mateo, CA 94402 
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
​Phone: (650) 375-2231
Fax: (650) 627-4632
Green Bay, Wisconsin
445 Cardinal Lane
Suite #110
Green Bay, WI 54313
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
Phone: (920) 940-5277
Fax: (844) 308-8462


Houston, Texas
1001 Medical Plaza Drive,
​Suite #130
The Woodlands, TX  77380
Hours: 8:30-5:30 M-F
​Phone: (346) 770-2970
Fax: (281) 419-1615
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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​Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313
attention only by appointment
Phone:
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  • Home
  • Locations
    • AC San Mateo, CA >
      • Inside AC SM
      • Our Practitioners >
        • Grant Wood
        • Steve Baum
        • Miguel Bustamante
      • Advanced Technology
      • Stanford Children's Health Partnership
      • Local Hotels
      • Contact Us
      • Team Members
    • AC Green Bay, WI >
      • Inside Wisconsin
      • Patient Testimonials
      • Contact Us
      • Emery Maloney
    • AC The Woodlands, TX
    • AC Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • The WCR Brace
    • Case Presentations >
      • Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
      • Switching to a WCR Brace
      • Adult Scoliosis Bracing
      • Neuromuscular Scoliosis
      • Treating Upper Thoracic Curves
    • Brace Articles
    • Patient Testimonials >
      • Grant's Testimonials
      • Paul's Testimonials
    • WCR Partner Testimonials
    • Grant's MS Thesis
    • Our Patients
    • Patients and Sports
    • Patients and Hobbies
    • Brace colors
    • Scoliosis Fashion
  • Patient Resources
    • WCR Brace Clinics >
      • USA Clinics
      • China Clinics
      • Canada Clinics
      • Australia Clinics
      • WCR Brace Clinic Finder
    • WCR Certified Practitioners
    • Professional Contacts & References
    • Forms & Insurance
    • Clinical Photos and X-rays
    • Scoliosis Rehab PT, CA
    • Blog
  • Events
    • Brace Clinic Calendar
    • Sosort 2022 - San Sebastian, Spain
    • Past Events >
      • Advancements in Conservative Treatment of Scoliosis 2018 >
        • Award for Advancements in the Conservative Treatment of Scoliosis
      • Past USA WCR Clinics and Conferences
      • Advancements in Conservative Treatment Of Scoliosis 2017
      • Shanghai Clinic
      • AAOP Meetings
      • BSPTS Schroth PT Training
    • Past SOSORT Conferences >
      • sosort2019 San Francisco - CA
      • SOSORT2018 Dubrovnik/Croatia
      • SOSORT2017 Lyon/France
      • SOSORT2016 Canada
    • Northeast Region Re-Align Clinic
  • Services
    • Scoliosis & Spine Online Learning
    • Prosthetics
    • Orthotics >
      • Pediatric Orthotics
      • Cranial Remolding Band
  • Hope's EmbraceĀ® Undershirts
  • Wall Grids
  • WCR Brace Fitting Evaluation
  • For PTs/Orthotists
  • WCR Measurement Order Form
  • Masterclass Conferences
  • Careers