Gensingen brace – Reshaping how we treat scoliosis
At Let’s Go Physio, we are excited by the Gensingen brace, which is reshaping how we approach scoliosis care and has proven to be extremely effective in the majority of cases.
Scoliosis can be a silent condition until it is noticed by a relative, carer or friend. It changes how a spine looks and can influence daily life, sometimes causing pain, discomfort and, for some, affects their self-esteem. Scoliosis can be treated very successfully with physiotherapy and bracing should the patient need one.
Understanding scoliosis
Scoliosis, or a sideways curvature of the spine, affects people of all ages, but is most common in adolescents. Patients with scoliosis will have an abnormal C-shaped or S-shaped spine.
The effects can go beyond just a curved back; it can lead to discomfort and, in more severe cases, impact a person’s ability to breathe and move freely. Traditionally, treatments have varied widely, from watchful waiting and exercises to wearing a brace and even surgery, depending on the curve’s severity and the patient’s age. In most patients, the exact cause of scoliosis is unknown.
There are three main types of scoliosis: –
- Congenital Scoliosis
- Idiopathic Scoliosis
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Anyone can get scoliosis, although it is more commonly diagnosed in children aged 11 and older. You are more likely to have scoliosis if your parents or siblings have it.
The main symptoms of scoliosis are: –
- Difference in shoulder height
- Difference in hip height or position
- One side of the rib cage is higher than the other when bending forward
- Progressive back pain
- If the curve is severe, in rare cases, difficulty breathing
What is the history of the Gensingen brace?
The Gensingen brace was designed by Dr Weiss™ and is a variation of the Chêneau style brace, which was developed in the 1970s. The Cheneau brace was the first asymmetric brace to consider using pressure zones and expansion areas that positively influenced the spine.
Evolving from this initial concept, the Gensingen brace was more recently designed to optimise correction for patients without the excessive bulk of traditional braces. This makes it highly effective in reducing the curvature of the spine and reducing the Cobb angle, often drastically reducing the need for surgery.
What makes the Gensingen brace so special?
The Gensingen brace stands out because it’s designed around the unique needs of the person wearing it. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a bespoke brace that fits the contours of a patient’s body, aiming to correct the spine’s alignment in a way that’s both effective and comfortable. It is typically worn anywhere between 18 – 20 hours a day.
A closer look at how the Gensingen brace supports the treatment of scoliosis
- Technologically advanced
The cornerstone of the brace’s success is its custom fit. Every brace is tailor-made, which ensures that it’s not only effective in correcting spinal curvature but also comfortable enough to wear daily. This customisation process begins with detailed 3D body scans that capture an accurate anatomical blueprint of the patient. These scans are then used alongside sophisticated Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) technologies for reduced manufacturing variances and human error. The result is an incredibly effective brace that also offers increased comfort and precision.
- Enhanced wearability
Made from lightweight, mouldable polyethene, the Gensingen brace is considered comfier than most other traditional braces. The result is that it increases patient compliance, meaning the brace is worn more often and is, therefore, more effective at treating scoliosis. Similarly, the brace features front-closing straps, which allow for increased patient independence – another factor that increases the likelihood the brace will be worn regularly.
- Psychological benefits
The impact of scoliosis extends beyond the physical. Wearing a bulky, uncomfortable brace can affect a person’s self-esteem and social interactions. The Gensingen brace, with its discreet design and improved comfort, helps mitigate these concerns. Patients generally report feeling more confident and less self-conscious, which is a significant step forward in holistic scoliosis care.
- Highly effective at improving scoliosis
The efficacy of the Gensingen brace in managing and treating scoliosis is not just anecdotal; it is backed by compelling evidence. Figures have demonstrated that the Gensingen brace is more than 90% effective in preventing the need for scoliosis surgery in patients who adhere to the prescribed treatment plan. This statistic is particularly significant when considering the physical, practical and emotional implications of surgical intervention.
- Active engagement from the patient
Another critical component of the Gensingen brace’s effectiveness is its ability to encourage active patient engagement in their treatment. Unlike traditional braces that passively attempt to hold the spine in place, the Gensingen brace is designed to work in tandem with the patient’s movements and physiotherapy exercise plan. This approach not only aids in correcting the spinal curvature but also strengthens the muscles around the spine, promoting long-term health and stability.
Frequently asked questions:
Q. What results can be expected when a patient is fitted with a Gensingen brace?
A. Results can vary depending on the stage of development, age at diagnosis, spinal flexibility, curve pattern and other factors that influence bracing outcomes. In general, younger children find better success than older children due to the increased spinal flexibility that comes at younger ages.
Q. Can a Gensingen brace be used in combination with physical therapy?
A. Yes! The success of the Gensingen brace is significantly elevated when combined with physiotherapy, such as the Schroth method. The Schroth method is a non-surgical treatment that involves exercises to help the spine return to a more natural position. The goal of Schroth exercises is to strengthen, de-rotate and elongate the spine. Addressing both the physical and functional aspects of the condition can help improve posture, increase muscle strength and reduce the severity of scoliosis.
Q. Can a Gensingen brace be used for cerebral palsy clients?
A. A Genisngen brace isn’t routinely used with clients affected by cerebral palsy; these clients tend to require a neuromuscular brace but each client is assessed individually and recommendations will be made according to their personal needs.
Gensingen Brace: What are the next steps?
At Let’s Go Physio, we understand that a recent scoliosis diagnosis, for adults or children, can be a worrying and stressful time. To help make your treatment experience as comfortable as possible, our team of qualified therapists will work with you to create a bespoke therapy plan – where we can examine if a Gensingen brace is a suitable treatment for you. If you are interested in hearing more about our services or would like some advice or guidance, please get in touch with our friendly team.