Custom Kyphosis Orthosis
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A custom kyphosis orthosis or brace is used to treat a structural kyphosis where there is an increase in the curve of the spine which is not related to posture or slouching. The brace is used to help straighten the spine and prevent further progression during the growing years. For these patients a light-weight thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) is most commonly recommended.
What is a Kyphosis?
Patients with a structural kyphosis cannot consciously straighten their spine; they may notice difficulty with standing upright or have ongoing back or leg pain. Scheuermann's kyphosis is the most common condition that we see. Most often diagnosed between the ages of 12 to 14 years, the cause is unknown; however it is thought to relate to abnormal bone growth and development. Kyphosis can occur from other problems in the spine, notably compression fractures due to osteoporosis or degenerative disc disease. What are the treatment goals?
We book an hour for your first appointment at which time, Eric Bapty, our Certified Orthotist will take a medical history and take measurements before suggesting a Treatment Plan (TP) based on his assessment and the prescription from your doctor. Treatment goals:
How is it made?
To fulfill your Treatment Plan (TP), Eric, our Certified Orthotist will perform shape capture and take all necessary measurements. Our in-house lab will create a plaster model which Eric modifies to suit your TP. Wendy, our Orthotic Technician, and Eric will custom fabricate your custom TLSO using the recommended materials. Our Certified Orthotist makes the final adjustments so that the fit is perfect for you. How to use your Brace
Our Certified Orthotist will ensure that the fit is correct, explain the wearing protocol, and offer information on any additional modalities appropriate for treatment. While the correction provided may take some time to get used to, the brace should not be painful. We provide a follow-up appointment after two weeks to make sure the fit and function are working for you. We also recommend that you book a follow-up appointment if you experience any redness or bruising, if you grow, or if you experience a re-occurrence of pain. Our Certified Orthotist can reassess your situation and determine the best course of treatment, which could include modifying the brace we provided for you, or making a new one. Velcro straps need to be kept clear of lint and generally need replacing every year or so. There is a fee for this service for which we are happy to provide you a quote. What funding is there?
The Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP) will fund up to 75% of the cost of a new Kyphosis Orthosis provided that:
ADP may partially cover the cost for replacing straps. Please ask us for more details. Private Insurance may pay for all or a portion of the cost not covered by ADP. It is important to consult your insurance company to determine what coverage you may have. Most companies require a physician's prescription in order to access funding. Some may request an extensive bio-mechanical analysis from the Certified Orthotist, which we provide at no additional charge. There may also be coverage by:
For more information, visit our Funding Page. Guidelines for your Spinal Orthosis
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