Scoliosis

At your first visit, you’ll meet with one of our orthotists who specialises in scoliosis bracing. We’ll talk through your child’s referral, check the plan from your surgeon, and answer any early questions.

We’ll then take a 3D scan of your child’s torso. This is a quick, contact-free process that captures the exact shape of the body in seconds. Your child simply stands in a comfortable position while the scanner moves around them. There’s no mess, no plaster, and no pain—just a detailed digital model that helps us create a brace that fits well and feels as comfortable as possible.

Next, we combine your child’s X-ray information with their 3D scan to plan the brace design. We use specialist French CAD software (computer-aided design) to map the curve and carefully control where the brace applies pressure—and where it leaves space—so the brace can support the spine as your child grows.

Our team has trained in Europe and is accredited in using this software. This step is about accuracy: the better the design, the better the fit and function of the brace.

Once the design is finalised, your child’s brace is made in our on-site manufacturing lab in Surrey Hills. Because we manufacture locally, our clinical team and technicians can work side-by-side throughout the build—checking details, refining comfort areas, and moving quickly if anything needs adjusting.

Local manufacturing also means:

• Shorter lead times (no overseas shipping delays)

• Consistent quality control

• Faster tweaks and updates when needed

At the fitting appointment, your child tries on the brace and we carefully adjust it for comfort and function. The first time can feel strange—tight, unfamiliar, and a bit bulky. That’s expected. We’ll trim and shape the edges so it sits smoothly and feels as comfortable as possible while still doing its job.

What to bring / know:

• A close-fitting singlet or T-shirt to wear underneath

• Optional: Torso Interface body socks (available to purchase), designed for brace wear

• We usually recommend not wearing the brace home in the car on day one, as long sitting can be uncomfortable at first

We’ll also give you a clear wearing plan. Many children start with night-time wear, then gradually increase before/after school, with school-time wear added later. Some children are prescribed up to 23 hours per day, but this is always individual—your orthotist will guide you based on your surgeon’s plan.

If your child plays sport or dances, it’s often okay to remove the brace for those activities (depending on the prescription). The goal is for the brace to become part of life—not to take it over.

A review appointment is usually booked around 3–4 weeks after fitting. If your child has sore spots, rubbing, or any worries before then, contact us sooner—we’d much rather adjust early than have your child pushing through discomfort.

At the first review:

• Bring your wearing chart or BraceTrack App data(if you’re using one)

• We’ll check skin, comfort, and brace fit

• We’ll talk through school, sport, sleep, and any tricky moments

It’s very common to have questions in the first few weeks. Write them down as they come up—we’ll work through them together.

Yes, you need a referral from an Orthopaedic Specialist to participate in our Scoliosis Bracing Program.

Your GP can refer you to one of these Orthopaedic Specialists:
Mr Gary Nattrass
Mr Michael Johnson
A/Prof Aaron Buckland
A/Prof Yi Yang

Please contact us if you need more details.

There are different types of scoliosis. The most common in teenagers is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis—meaning there isn’t one clear cause (it can run in families). Less commonly, scoliosis may be present from birth (congenital) or linked with neuromuscular conditions.

It’s completely normal to wonder if posture, sport, or school bags caused it. The reassuring thing is: lifestyle factors like these don’t cause scoliosis. The focus is on measuring the curve and watching how it changes as your child grows.

Scoliosis is relatively common, affecting around 2–4% of children. Mild curves may stay stable and only need monitoring. Some curves can worsen as a child grows, particularly during puberty.

Early detection and regular follow-up matter. With the right support—such as observation, physiotherapy, or bracing— children continue to take part in school, sport, and everyday activities.

If you’re unsure what you’re seeing, a health professional can help assess whether further review is needed.

Assessment usually includes a physical examination (often the Adam’s forward bend test) and, if needed, an X-ray to measure the curve in degrees.

Seek prompt medical review if you notice new or worsening uneven shoulders/hips, or a rib “hump.”

Treatment depends on curve size and age.
Brace treatment requires a referral from an orthopaedic surgeon

Options for treatment include:

• Observation (regular check-ups and repeat imaging)
• Bracing (a custom spinal brace worn for set hours to help stop the curve getting worse during growth)
• Surgery (for larger or progressing curves)

No, bracing doesn’t “cure” scoliosis.
But it can reduce the chance of progression when worn as prescribed. If your child is referred for bracing, your orthotist works closely with your orthopaedic specialist to design, fit and adjust the brace for comfort, function, and day-to-day life.

Some children only need observation with repeat checks and occasional imaging. Others may need bracing if the curve is getting worse while they’re still growing.
Your Orthopaedic specialist will guide you based on curve size, growth remaining, and how things are changing over time.