What is the Boston Brace 3D^®?

The Boston Brace 3D^® is the next innovation in the non-operative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Our clinical experts have combined knowledge of the three-dimensional scoliosis curvature with the latest in shape capture and CAD/CAM technologies to create a brace that delivers superior patient outcomes.

How is the Boston Brace 3D different from the Boston Brace Original?

The Boston Brace 3D is made from a scan of the patient. Rather than being fabricated over a symmetrical model, it is fabricated over an asymmetrical model. Specific coronal shifts and pushes are built in along with larger relief areas.

What are the primary benefits of the Boston Brace 3D?

The Boston Brace 3D is more aggressive in the transverse plane. By incorporating a selective push/shift combination we are seeing improved corrections. We have found that patients can tolerate more shift/push pressure—we are not flattening their abdomen nor are we adjusting their sagittal profile. In addition, the corrective forces are created in conjunction with open/void areas that allow for easier breathing mechanics.

What type of patient should wear the Boston Brace 3D versus the Boston Brace Original?

All curve patterns and patient presentations are candidates. For mild curves, we may not shift or include as aggressive a push, so the custom fabricated symmetrical Boston Brace Original would work. For out of balance curve patterns, which are typically larger curves, we recommend the Boston Brace 3D.

How does the Boston Brace 3D compare to the Rigo-Cheneau?

The Boston Brace 3D has a number of advantages over the Cheneau brace:

• The Boston Brace 3D is simpler to measure and manufacture so turnaround time is far superior
• It has a lower profile so it's less likely to be noticed under clothes
• The Boston Brace 3D costs a fraction of the Cheneau brace, and in nearly all cases is covered by insurance; on the other hand the Cheneau brace is rarely covered by insurance, which means a patient will have a significant bill
• All Boston Brace 3Ds are made in the USA

As our knowledge of scoliosis improves, we are seeing many of the various brace designs merging more and more. Some of the early designs attempted to do what we are able to achieve through CAD. Cheneau too has large expansion areas. Many are hand modified or do a combination of CAD and hand modifications. The Boston Brace 3D is fabricated in CAD from a scan of the patient. We follow blueprinting principles rather than a classification system.

How do the Boston Brace 3D and Rigo-Cheneau brace compare in price?

The specific cost of each depends on what type of insurance you have. The Boston Brace 3D, as well as the other scoliosis products we offer, are covered by insurance. In most cases, the Rigo-Cheneau will have some out of pocket expenses because its cost is significantly higher than what most insurance providers allow. We suggest you speak with your insurance provider to understand your obligation before committing.

Is the Boston Brace 3D more comfortable for patients?

Yes, Boston O&P incorporates adherence monitors in all our braces so we can objectively review the hours of brace wear. Our data shows that the majority of our patients are able to wear the brace as prescribed. Having a team in place to offer support and answer questions is key. We know that our patients wear the Boston Brace 3D and achieve positive results.

What is the Boston Sensor?

The Boston Sensor is a wireless device that fits in the brace to capture a patients wear pattern. The Boston Sensor is the size of a half dollar and records the internal temperature of the scoliosis brace in order to record the user's wear patterns.

When patients know they are being monitored, compliance improves, which leads to better patient results. Adherence is so critical to a child's successful bracing experience that we offer a Boston Sensor with every brace.

What do I need to do differently when ordering the Boston Brace 3D?

Orthotists need to blueprint the X-ray according to Boston Brace 3D principles and direct the technician on where to shift and push. Also, we will need a scan (.AOP and .STL file formats). Orthotists do not need to own Rodin software to do the scan—you can use Captiva and an iPad.

Is physical therapy part of the Boston Brace 3D bracing protocol?

Yes, it is. Physical therapy has always been part of the Boston Brace protocol. Today there are many schools of physiotherapy scoliosis specific exercises such as Schroth, Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS), and Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS) to name a few.