In the ever-evolving field of scoliosis management, technological innovations are creating exciting new possibilities for improved patient outcomes and quality of life. At Prothotic Laboratory Inc., we recently transitioned from using traditional vacuum-formed, hand-draped plastic Rigo Cheneau-style braces to a modern, 3D-printed brace fabricated from PPU material using the Embrace printer by Create it REAL. The early results have been remarkable—not just clinically, but in terms of patient experience and compliance.
One young patient, Mia*, recently shared her personal experience with the new 3D-printed brace. While the focus of our discussion was not on her identity, her insights provided a powerful testament to the benefits of this advanced orthotic technology.
Mia had previously worn a traditional rigid brace, which she described as “hard” and “uncomfortable.” In contrast, she found the new 3D-printed brace thinner, more flexible, and notably more comfortable. “I can wear it longer,” she shared, adding that she even has “no problem sleeping with it now.” Her mother echoed this sentiment, describing the new brace as “more customized” and “life-changing.”
From a clinical standpoint, Mia’s X-rays confirmed these subjective impressions. Her latest scans showed improved spinal alignment compared to her previous results with the traditional brace. “This was really exciting to see,” remarked her orthotist. “If we can combine enhanced comfort with improved correction, the long-term implications are tremendous.”
One of the key benefits of the 3D-printed brace appears to be increased wear time, a critical factor in scoliosis treatment. “If you’re able to wear it longer, that directly affects the sustainability of the correction,” the clinician explained. “We’re hoping that not only do we see better outcomes during bracing, but that those results are sustained even after the brace is no longer needed. That would be the true success.”
Another notable advantage has been improved social comfort and compliance. Mia now wears her brace to school without hesitation, something she was reluctant to do before. “It’s just more livable,” her mother noted, emphasizing how the improved comfort has had a ripple effect on their daily lives.
As this story demonstrates, the integration of 3D printing technology into scoliosis treatment represents more than a change in materials—it signifies a shift toward more personalized, patient-friendly care. By gathering and sharing patient experiences like Mia’s, we hope to inform and inspire other clinicians, families, and innovators to explore how modern solutions can reshape the future of scoliosis care.
*Patient name has been changed to protect privacy.