Scoliosis Wear and Care Guide

Learn the Basics of Caring for Your Scoliosis Brace

Applying and Removing Your Brace 

1. Start by putting on a tight fitting non-ribbed cotton t-shirt or similar, then step into your brace and adjust until it sits comfortably around your waist.
2. Thread the straps through the buckles and pull the middle strap until the marks on the Velcro strap are just visible, then fasten the lower and upper straps. You may need help or a mirror to do this part, especially at first, but it will become easier over time. Be patient with yourself as this takes practice.

To remove, loosen the straps and step out of the brace. 

Cleaning your Brace 

• Wearing a t-shirt under your brace will help keep it clean in addition to keeping you comfortable. (Your brace will not absorb moisture but perspiration will collect on it.)
• Clean the inside of your brace as needed, using rubbing alcohol. Follow manufacturer instructions, which are usually to dilute the rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle and spray the inner surface of your brace evenly, holding the bottle 6 inches away from it. Use a dry cloth to wipe off the excess liquid. The alcohol will dry almost immediately, and your brace is ready to wear again.
• Cleaning with mild soap and water can help remove stains, but be sure not to soak your brace. If you’ve cleaned it with soap and water, allow time for it to dry before wearing it again.

Caring for your Skin

• Shower or bathe daily and take the time to check your skin for reddened areas. If you notice red areas that do not go away or if you have any bruising or broken skin, stop wearing your brace until you can return to your orthotist and adjustments can be made.
• Use antiperspirant as needed, but avoid the use of creams or lotions on your skin unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Remember that, though some discomfort is normal as you adjust to your brace, pain is a warning that something is not right, and you should discontinue use and follow up with your orthotist.

Support and Resources

• Curvy Girls
• National Scoliosis Foundation
• Scoliosis Research Society
• Setting Scoliosis Straight
• Straight Talk Scoliosis