Nighttime Bracing for the Treatment of Scoliosis
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The Boston Brace Night Shift is a Boston O&P scoliosis orthosis designed specifically for nighttime wear. It provides comprehensive treatment to all curve types and can help to make bracing more comfortable while still being effective in stopping curve progression.
Studies show that a high output of human growth hormone is released during sleep, which means that much of a child’s physical growth occurs at night. Using a brace at night takes advantage of this by correcting the scoliotic curves at a time when bone growth is most likely to occur.
The Night Shift also uses the recumbent position of the patient to exert corrective forces on the curves when the body is not subject to gravity, which negatively affects scoliotic curves.
The Boston Brace Night Shift can be fabricated from either a supine cast, which is taken while the patient is lying down; scan and measurements; or supine measurements.
How Does Night Bracing Work?
The Night Shift orthosis functions by simultaneously applying a three point pressure system in order to straighten the scoliotic curves. The Night Shift is built with “relief” areas that enable the spine to shift into a more corrected position.
How Effective is Nighttime Bracing for Scoliosis?
Several studies have shown nighttime bracing to be effective in controlling curve progression. Typical in-brace X-rays for nighttime bracing reveal close to 100% correction or even overcorrection of curves.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Nighttime Bracing?
The Night Shift orthosis can be used for scoliosis patients that have trouble wearing a traditional full time brace for the amount of time prescribed. Nocturnal bracing can also be beneficial for juvenile and neuromuscular scoliosis patients, as well as those with more severe curves located in the center region of the back. Patients that are weaning out of their current full-time system may transition to a night-only brace as well.
Will I Need Both a Nighttime and a Daytime Brace?
It’s possible. In some cases, a patient may benefit from wearing both a day and a night brace to address the spinal curve in different ways, but it depends on several factors, including the severity of the curve, the age of the patient, compliance, etc. You should consult your doctor and orthotist about your specific diagnosis and treatment needs.