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

Tips to Handle Skin Care and Prevent Skin Irritation from Knee Brace

12/14/2022

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It’s very important to take care of your skin and keep it clean to avoid skin irritation from a knee brace.

Knee braces are usually used for the recovery process or to treat discomfort from knee osteoarthritis. Athletes wear them to prevent injuries; some professionals use these braces to support their joints. Some people wear them all the time, and others use them when they feel pain in their knees.

Wearing braces for a long time can cause skin irritation if they’re not worn properly.
 

The most common symptoms include skin becoming red, a rash forming, and itching, numbness, and dryness in severe cases.

While wearing knee braces, you might have a natural urge to scratch your skin, which is a big NO. Knowing how to handle skincare before wearing knee braces is very important. In this article, we’ll outline the methods to prepare the skin before wearing knee braces and share some tips to avoid and reduce skin irritation from a knee brace.

Ways to Prepare the Skin for a Knee Brace and Prevent Skin Itching

Knee braces add another layer to the skin, so it’s vital to prepare your skin before putting on knee braces. The skin needs to be soft so the tissues can tolerate an extra layer on the body to prevent skin irritation.

The first step is to apply a moisturizer to the knee. You can use a non-greasy lotion which will prevent dryness or discomfort that might arise in the future. 

Dermatologists also recommend using powder because it prevents sweat and rash. 

It’s also crucial to keep the knee clean. Wash the area with warm water and a non-scented soap to avoid chemical reactions. After taking off the knee brace, scrub the skin area with an alcohol wipe to clean off sweat.

Choose the Right Knee Braces

Selecting the best clothing material for braces can help reduce skin irritation from knee braces. Several materials, like polyester or latex, can trigger a skin reaction. 

The best type of material that you should opt for is wrinkle-free cotton. This particular clothing is best known for minimizing irritation or redness.

Regardless, always check for skin allergies before making a decision. The knee brace should not cause pain or blisters with redness on the skin. If these signs occur, you should consider changing your knee brace.

Put Cotton Between Skin and Knee Brace

You might have sensitive skin, so you’re more prone to skin irritation from all knee braces. Placing cotton between knee braces and the skin can help prevent skin conditions. 

The urge to scratch or feel occasional discomfort can be avoided using soft cotton, which reduces skin irritation from knee braces.

How to Wear a Knee Brace Properly

There are various types of braces, but you can let your doctor decide which knee brace should be used depending on the injury and healing process.  A tight knee brace can affect blood circulation, leading to severe pain and swelling. 

Hence a poorly placed knee brace would do more harm.

Follow these tips to place a knee brace properly:
​
  • Roll up the trousers above your knee.
  • Depending on the type of brace, if it’s a slip-on one, then slide the foot on top of the brace and take it out through the bottom.
  • Slide the brace up to the knee.
  • Tighten it according to your comfort, and ensure it is not too tight that you have trouble walking. Similarly, it should not be so loose that the knee cap doesn’t provide support.

How to Take Care of the Knee Braces 

If you’re wearing knee braces for the first day, put on the braces for just 2-3 hours. You can gradually increase the time to reduce irritation from knee braces.

If any redness or irritation occurs, wash the area with soap and water and contact your physician immediately.
​
  • Carefully dry your skin after taking a shower
  • Wash your braces after a couple of days 
  • A hairdryer in cooling mode can be used to dry the knee braces
  • Do not expose the knee brace to harsh sunlight or salty water

Do Not Wear the Braces for Too Long

The main reason for wearing a knee brace is to let the muscles heal from injury and reduce pain. In other words, knee braces should reduce discomfort, not add to it. 

If you feel that the knee brace is no longer providing relief or causing itching, it’s time to take the knee braces off and visit your physician.

Your doctor might suggest some knee exercises or decide to change the braces to reduce skin irritation. Wearing knee braces for a long time can reduce blood circulation and flow in the body. If you have undergone a surgical procedure, consult your healthcare provider before removing the knee braces.

When Should You Visit the Doctor?

The first reaction of most people when a skin rash occurs is to instantly get an off-the-counter ointment without consulting their healthcare provider on what should be done to reduce irritation from knee braces. 

If any of the below symptoms occur, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately.

  • You have difficulty walking despite wearing a kneecap.
  • There is a lot of pain and discomfort arising from the knee brace, which can be in the form of pressure on the knee.
  • The area is red and bruised, which can also be followed by a rash being developed suddenly.
  • Other body parts start hurting, such as the feet or the back.
  • You have a powerful urge to scratch the area.

Get Rid of Skin Issues When Wearing Braces

We’ve shared a few tips and tricks on handling skin care to prevent and reduce skin irritation from knee braces. 

Make sure the skin under the knee brace is dry and clean. 

If you’re recovering from any injury and don’t know how to get rid of skin irritation from the knee brace, contact Align Clinic immediately. Our professional Orthotists will guide you about the next steps. 
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Schroth Method as a Way of Dealing With Scoliosis

12/7/2022

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Scoliosis is a progressive bone disease that causes curves in the spine. Unfortunately, there’s no simple cure for scoliosis, affecting almost three percent of the population.

Surgery is the only thing that permanently helps with scoliosis, but even then, it isn't always practical. Corrective surgery may help to straighten the spinal curvature, although there's no assurance it won't return.

Scoliosis does not have to be unpleasant to live with. Some activities and methods can aid people who suffer from it - one of which is the Schroth method. 

In this article, we'll look at how you can use the Schroth technique to treat Scoliosis.

Scoliosis - What Is It, and What Are the Symptoms?

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can occur in any part of the spine. It most commonly appears during adolescence but can also be caused by congenital disabilities or injuries later in life. 

While most scoliosis cases are mild, some children experience worsening curves as they age. In severe instances, scoliosis can be crippling. 

The most severe spinal curves can reduce the amount of space in the chest cavity, making it challenging for the lungs to function correctly.

What are the symptoms of Scoliosis?
  • Uneven Shoulders
  • One shoulder blade sticks out more than the other
  • Uneven waistline
  • The head is not centered over the pelvis
  • One hip higher than the other
  • Back pain (mild to severe)
  • Difficulty breathing

What Is the Schroth Method and How Does It Work?

The Schroth method is a three-dimensional, corrective approach to treating scoliosis. It was developed in the 1920s by Katharina Schroth, a German physical therapist who had scoliosis herself. 

The Schroth method is based on the idea that curves in the spine can be corrected with specific exercises and postural modifications.

The Schroth method has been shown to be an effective treatment for scoliosis. 

One study found that patients who underwent Schroth therapy had significantly less back pain than those who did not receive any treatment. 

So How Does the Schroth Method Work?

The Schroth method uses a three-dimensional approach to correct spinal curvature. That means that exercises and postural modifications target the specific curve pattern in each individual. 

Schroth therapy aims to retrain the muscles and bones around the spine so that the spine can be brought back into alignment.

Schroth therapy consists of both active and passive exercises. Active exercises are done by the patient, while passive exercises are done with the help of a therapist or another person. 

Passive exercises may include massage, traction, or electrical stimulation.

The Schroth method is usually done in a series of sessions, each lasting 30-60 minutes.

Schroth therapy is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home after each session.

Exercises of the Schroth Method

This method helps the scoliosis patient by providing three different exercises, which are sensory-motor, kinesthetic, and cognitive. 

1. Muscular Exercises

Scoliosis takes a tremendous amount of strain on the musculature. The "c" or "s" shaped curvature in the back might indicate that either side's muscles have atrophied or been overworked. 

Having disproportional muscularity can be more harmful than beneficial. 

The Schroth approach seeks to eliminate the asymmetry between the two sides of the back, focusing primarily on the atrophied side. 

If a patient is younger, working on both muscular and functional aspects on both sides might help stop or reverse scoliosis development.

2. Breathing Exercises

Severe scoliosis might not only cause back pain but also restricted breathing. The curvature of the spine from scoliosis can compress lung tissue and make breathing difficult, especially when combined with asthma or other pulmonary diseases. 

The Schroth method doesn't simply try to fix poor posture through spinal adjustments. 

It also includes targeted exercises to help the patient learn how to breathe in a way that will work with, rather than against, their lung restrictions. 

This 3D approach sets the Schroth method apart from other treatments and has proven effective for many patients.

3. Posture exercises

Scoliosis can have a poor influence on posture and could worsen due to poor posture. Improving one's posture to fit the specific situation is an effective strategy to combat this vicious circle.

The Schroth technique uses posture exercises to help patients manage their scoliosis by correcting their posture. 

Posture training may help treat scoliosis since every patient's curve varies, requiring a different approach. It's crucial not to take positions that exacerbate scoliosis, and changing your regular posture might aid in its cure.

Although exercises using the Schroth technique may be obtained online, you should not attempt them alone. 

Every scoliosis condition is different, and adopting the incorrect method for your issue might worsen things. 

If you want to employ the Schroth approach to help you deal with scoliosis, you should consult with the finest specialists in the field.

What Are the Benefits of the Schroth Method?

There are many benefits to Schroth therapy.  

Studies have shown that the Schroth method can slow the progression of spinal curvature and improve the quality of life for people with scoliosis. 

However, some of the most common benefits of the Schroth Method are as follows:
  • Reduced pain – This method is an excellent way to reduce pain for scoliosis patients.
  • Reduced curvature – This method is designed to stop the progression of curvature in young people's bones before they reach full maturity.
  • Improved breathing – According to research, breathing exercises improve lung function.
  • Improved posture – Good posture leads to less pain throughout the day and a nicer appearance.
  • Better balance – The method not only strengthens the muscles but also works on improving balance.
  • Improved flexibility – Scoliosis patients often have trouble with flexibility, but this method can help improve it.

Say Goodbye to Back Pain

The Schroth technique is one of the most effective ways to treat scoliosis and is a beautiful alternative to traditional treatments or invasive surgery. 

This non-surgical and non-invasive approach has helped many people live with their condition and significantly improve their quality of life. 
​

Book an appointment with our specialists today to learn how you can manage your pain and lead an active life.
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How to Deal with Scoliosis: A Comprehensive Guide to Schroth Therapy

12/1/2022

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Unfortunately, the lack of awareness, people still underestimate and consider the effectiveness of the Schroth therapy a myth.

If you believe your back is getting curvier as time goes by, maybe it’s a sign that you should try  Schroth therapy for scoliosis.

If you ignore this spinal disorder and take it lightly, your spine adjusts to the curvature of your body. 

Ultimately, you are left with two options:
  • To live with the back pain and the curve.
  • To get surgery.

Hence, the earlier you start treating scoliosis, the better it is.

This article will dispel all the myths that keep you and multiple other scoliosis patients away from the correct diagnosis and ultimate treatment.

What is Schroth Therapy for Scoliosis?

Schroth Therapy is a scoliosis-specific method that primarily focuses on the three-dimensional correction of the curve pattern for your spine using physical therapy.

Simply put, it’s an exercise-based treatment for scoliosis that works for people of all ages.

The name Schroth came from the surname of the originator of the famous method, Katharina Schroth. After going through painful steel brace treatment for scoliosis at a very young age, she decided to introduce a more functional approach to the patients.

The result was Schroth therapy, which could do wonders for your curvy spine. 

How Schroth Therapy Treats Scoliosis:

If you have scoliosis, the spine gets misaligned because of a certain percentage of rotation in your vertebrae. Therefore, the 3D spinal deformity requires the alignment of the three-dimensional geometry of the spine.

Here, the Schroth method comes into action and corrects the curve pattern from all three dimensions.

During physical therapy, specific exercises and positions are used to align the posture properly without surgery. Gradually, the muscles that support your spine are strengthened. Ultimately, your posture slowly gets better, and your spine functions smoothly.

The Schroth method helps:
  • Enable oxygen flow to the curved part of the body for easier breathing.
  • Enhance the spine's strength for an improved posture. 
  • Facilitate correct posture to prevent scoliosis from worsening.
  • Reduce back pains.
  • Enhance overall spine strength.

Should You Get Schroth Therapy?

One advantage of Schroth's therapy is that people of all ages can benefit from the treatment.

Whether you’re in the initial stages of scoliosis or you are at a severe stage, you can use the approach and observe rewarding results in the form of:
  • Reduced spine pain
  • Better posture
  • No more scoliotic curve progression

Top Five Schroth Exercises You Should Perform

Among multiple exercises that are effective in treating scoliosis, below are the top exercises that you can try under the supervision of a trained professional: 

1. McKenzie Exercise

One of the most efficient exercises for treating the spine curve is the McKenzie Exercise. The exercise reduces the pressure on your lower back. Ultimately, the spine is aligned. For apparent results, you can try the following exercise 7-8 times daily:
  • Lie on your stomach.
  • Keep your hands on your sides.
  • Turn your face on any one of the sides.
  • Remain in the position for 2-4 minutes.

2. "50 x Pezziball"

With this exercise, you sit on a Swiss ball in front of the mirror. Once you set yourself on the ball, you hold the war bar in front of you to adjust your spine's three dimensions: forward-backward, sideways, and twisting, as per 3D auto self-correction.

3. Prone Position on a Stool

Although other props can be used, a stool is more efficient in correcting your shoulder traction and counter-traction, the thoracic and lumbar curve, etc.

You must lie on a stool with your face towards the ground and your hands on your sides. You have to perform the exercises for a few minutes daily for apparent results.

4. SAIL

The stretching exercise helps improve breathing by increasing the chest cavity. You expand your rib cage by breathing in a specific direction, maintaining 3D postural correction. Ultimately, the collapsed lungs are opened.

To perform the exercise:
  • Stand on a half foam roll.
  • Hold two poles vertically in each hand.
  • Breathe to activate the deactivated muscles of your spine.

5. Schroth Semi-Hang Exercise

The famous semi-hanging exercise is usually used to prepare patients for the Schroth method. The practice helps reduces the pressure on your spine by stretching it using gravity.

Usually, a still hang or a pull bar is used for the exercise, preferably the ones mounted to the wall. Keep your back and hips straight, and pull yourself up to a 90-degree angle without bending your legs. Once done, lower your legs back to the starting position and repeat the sets.

Why Do You Need a Reliable Schroth Therapist?

Now that you have all the knowledge and information to treat yourself through the Schroth Method, can you treat scoliosis yourself?

The answer is no!

You may have adequate knowledge of the general exercises, but every patient has a different spine structure, curve patterns, severity level, and age. Hence, the treatment of scoliosis will vary for every other individual.

For this, you need someone reliable and knowledgeable enough to guide you through every step. The chiropractor will analyze your condition and offer options for your body type, age, and gender. Additionally, they will help track the progress of your corrections that you cannot do on your own.

You must get regular sessions from a trained and experienced orthotics professional.  

The Bottom Line

No matter your age, diagnosing and treating scoliosis requires observing apparent changes in your spine and curvature.

Dealing with such issues has been made easy by treatments like the Schroth method.

If you are developing the symptoms, then reach out to us today. Align Clinic has a team of qualified, trained, and professional experts who have been treating people who have scoliosis for years.
​

Are you looking for a consultation? Contact us today.​
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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
Florida Medical Center - North
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​Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313
attention only by appointment
Phone:
(920) 940-5277
Fax: (844) 308-8462
Photos used under Creative Commons from shixart1985, wuestenigel
  • 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 Embrace® Undershirts
  • Wall Grids
  • WCR Brace Fitting Evaluation
  • For PTs/Orthotists
  • WCR Measurement Order Form
  • Masterclass Conferences
  • Careers