By Carlos Barsotti
MMany teenagers, especially during their growth spurt, which occurs during puberty, face pain resulting from spinal deviation every year, running a serious risk of developing serious health problems if they do not identify this condition in advance. Even though this is a very common scenario in this age group, there are effective methods to combat its worsening, bringing quality of life to young people without having to suffer severe consequences in their future. Of these, the most effective is, without a doubt, the scoliosis brace.
Considering the most common types of scoliosis, idiopathic scoliosis is the one that most affects adolescents – which can present varying levels of evolution, depending on each case. According to data from OMSaround 2% and 3% of adolescents around the world are affected by this pathology and, although its cause is unknown and therefore difficult to prevent in the strictest sense, regular monitoring with health professionals allows it to be identified in its initial stages and, therefore, can be prevented.
There are several screening programs in schools, also known as “school screening,” which play fundamental roles in identifying scoliosis in its early stages, so that professionals in the field can carry out early intervention with a focus on bringing significant improvements in the prognosis. With them, it becomes possible to identify the degree of curvature present in the teenager and, thus, direct them to the best treatment.
In cases where curves are more likely to worsen, the use of orthopedic braces is a highly recommended option, as their main objective is to prevent the curvature from progressing to a point where surgery is necessary. When used at the correct time, a study published in “New England Journal of Medicine” demonstrated a 72% success rate in preventing the curve from progressing to a point that requires surgery – especially in those who wear it for at least 17 hours a day.
The type and design of the vest are chosen according to the location and severity of the curve, considering that each of them has its own characteristics and recommendations depending on the teenager’s condition. Today, there are highly developed 3D and S4D models, which represent significant innovations in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. These technologies utilize advanced manufacturing methods, allowing for a more precise and comfortable fit to the young person’s body, along with many other benefits to their treatment.
In addition to this customization ensuring an exact and more effective fit, precision in design with increased comfort can improve young people’s adherence to the model, capable of significantly enhancing the result to be obtained. But, in parallel with this use, it is extremely important that teenagers diagnosed with scoliosis undergo physiotherapy sessions, with more precise targeting to improve the patient’s strength, flexibility and posture.
This guidance and constant monitoring is critical to ensuring exercises are done correctly, which will create a more holistic treatment approach when integrated with the orthopedic brace. Together, these components offer a comprehensive and effective approach to managing idiopathic scoliosis, supporting the health and well-being of affected adolescents.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a complex condition, but with early detection and intervention, its progression can be stopped or slowed, especially when treated with the use of orthopedic braces in recommended cases. However, it is important to highlight that they represent not only a form of physical correction, but also an approach that requires understanding, patience, and psychosocial support.
Therefore, considering that adaptation can be both a physical and emotional challenge for teenagers, it is essential that they have full support from their family, friends and medical team. With this multidisciplinary support and clinical commitment, it will be possible to transform the journey of a teenager with scoliosis into a story of success and resilience.
About Dr. Carlos Edward Barsotti:
Dr. Carlos Eduardo Barsotti is an orthopedic surgeon graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of USP, Master in Health Sciences and Postgraduate from Harvard Medical School. With more than 19 years of experience in the area, he is one of the few professionals in the country to carry out highly complex interventions, mainly in the correction of scoliosis.