A new corrective brace
for the abnormal curvature of the spine, idiopathic scoliosis,
now allows greater flexibility and is well-received by
patients. It is called SpineCor and KKH is the first accredited
treatment centre in Asia for the innovation.
While very mild cases of scoliosis require observation,
those that are more severe may need a back brace to control
its progression. Up to now, this has been a rigid, custom-made
Thoracolumbosacral Orthosis (TLSO), worn under clothing,
for 22 hours a day until the child reaches skeletal maturity.
Only those with very severe cases need surgery.
“The poor compliance with the TLSO forced us to
look for an alternative,” said Dr Kevin Lim, Consultant
Orthopaedic Surgeon at KKH. “Many of our patients
are visibly upset at the prospect of having to wear the
TLSO. This is not surprising as the brace is warm and uncomfortable.” The
SpineCor brace, on the other hand, works on a different
principle. Comprising a series of straps and elastic bands,
it is worn discreetly under clothing. Patients wearing
the SpineCor can do sports including gymnastics and ballet.
The protocol dictates that the brace is worn for a minimum
of 18 months.
Mr Satyaki Sengupta, Chief Therapist
of Rehabilitation Department at KKH, who is also an accredited
SpineCor Physiotherapist
said, “We are providing a weekly clinic for patients
who opt for the SpineCor brace to reinforce the corrective
movements. Patients will also learn how to keep the flexibility
and strength of the spine and trunk, which is essential
for maintaining a good posture after the brace is removed.”
KKH’s Rehabilitation Department
also became the first in Asia to be accredited as a SpineCor
Physiotherapy
Centre.
Idiopathic scoliosis is an abnormal three-dimensional
curvature of the spine. The incidence of idiopathic scoliosis
in Singapore is 2 - 3% and patients are usually thin, tall
females. Many cases are detected at school health screenings
and present between the ages of 10 and 14.
The response from patients has been
promising. Since its introduction in mid-January 2009,
8 patients have chosen
the SpineCor brace over the TLSO. One of KKH’s patients,
Miss Loraine Choo, 12, said, “Making the decision
was easy. The TLSO is hard and restricts my movement. The
SpineCor brace is soft and comfortable. Though it took
me a few days to get used to it, I do not feel tightness
anymore now.” The best part is that her classmates
are not aware that she is wearing a corrective brace!
(Source: KK Women’s
and Children’s Hospital’s
Newsletter – Special Delivery)
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