Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In adults, the spine has stopped growing, so braces can’t correct the scoliosis curve. However, we design custom braces to help relieve posture-related pain and improve overall posture and appearance.

Kyphosis is an excessive curvature of the spine that causes the top of the back to appear more rounded than normal. It can occur at any age but is common during adolescence. The condition is sometimes known as ’round back.’
Bracing can provide pain relief for those suffering from kyphosis by adjusting the position of the shoulders and pelvis. In the growing patient, we can prevent the worsening of the deformity and quickly improve appearance.

The optimal age for treating scoliosis depends on various factors, including the severity of the curvature, the skeletal maturity of the individual, and the specific type of scoliosis. In general, the earlier scoliosis is detected and treated, the better the bracing treatment outcomes.
Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for addressing scoliosis because the spine is still growing. Conservative treatments such as bracing or physical therapy are more effective when started before the skeletal maturity is reached.
Once a person reaches skeletal maturity, which is usually around the age of 16 to 18 in girls and 18 to 20 in boys, the bones have stopped growing, and it becomes less likely that scoliosis will progress. However, even after skeletal maturity, treatment options may still be considered, particularly if the curvature is severe and causing symptoms.
While treatment options are slightly more limited with age, we have had success treating adult patients.
In some cases, surgical intervention may be considered for adults with scoliosis, especially if the curvature is causing pain, difficulty breathing, or other health issues.

You can submit photos through our online flat head diagnosis form for a free, quick assessment. A team member will get back to you within 24 hours. Or, you can book a free consultation at one of our clinics, where we’ll assess your baby’s head shape, offer advice, and discuss any needed treatment.

Use the cleaning fluid we provide or mild soap and water. Keeping the helmet clean ensures it’s hygienic and comfortable for your baby.

Yes, your baby should wear the helmet during sleep. Consistent wear is key to getting the best results. The helmets are designed for comfort and safety during all activities, including sleep.

Side effects are rare. Some babies might have mild skin irritation or discomfort at first, but this usually settles quickly. Regular follow-ups help us address any concerns

This depends on your baby’s age and the severity of their condition. On average, treatment lasts three to six months, but every case is different.

Absolutely. The helmet won’t interfere with breastfeeding, and most babies adapt to wearing it during feeding and other activities.

Torticollis, or a tilted head posture, can result from several common factors related to the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle:

• positioning in the womb: Sometimes, the position of the baby before birth can lead to the SCM muscle becoming contracted.
• abnormal muscle development: In some cases, the SCM muscle may not develop normally, leading to tightness and tilt.
• birth-related trauma: trauma or injury to the SCM muscle during birth—can also cause torticollis.

Typically, signs of torticollis aren’t immediately noticeable. It often becomes more apparent when your baby is around six to eight weeks old, as they begin to gain more control over their head and neck movements.

If your baby has a fever, take off the helmet until their temperature is back to normal. Once they’re better, they can start wearing it again as usual.

You might notice a flat spot on the back or side of your baby’s head. Other signs can include uneven ears, a bulging forehead on one side, or facial asymmetry. If you spot any of these, it’s worth consulting a specialist.

For your scoliosis appointment, wear comfortable clothing that makes it easy for your clinician to assess your spine. You may need to remove some clothing during the consultation for an accurate evaluation.

Here’s what we suggest:

• Loose-fitting clothes: Choose items that are easy to adjust or remove, so your back is accessible for the assessment.
• Comfortable bottoms: Leggings or tracksuit bottoms work best, allowing you to move freely during the examination.
• Hair ties: If you have long hair, bring a hair tie to keep it out of the way during your appointment.

If you’re unsure what to wear, feel free to contact us ahead of time for advice.

Yes, we normally recommend wearing the brace for 22 hours a day during the first six weeks of treatment. After this, you may be able to reduce the wear time. Your clinician will give you an exact wearing schedule before starting treatment.

The more time spent in the brace, the better the chance of stopping the curve progression and improving your Cobb angle.

Yes! Thanks to its three-dimensional design, postural improvements are often noticeable within two months, especially with good brace use.

These improvements include:

• reduced rib hump (caused by spinal rotation)
• better waistline symmetry
• improved hip alignment and overall balance

By rebalancing the spine and ensuring the weight line from the head is more central over the pelvis, the long-term outlook for patients improves significantly.

Braces like the LOC Scoliosis Brace can:

• reduce the need for surgery later in life
• help manage pain
• improve the cosmetic appearance of scoliosis

For teenagers, bracing can stop a scoliosis curve from worsening as they grow. Over time, this can help relieve discomfort, improve posture, and reduce the need for surgery.

Yes, it does. When started early, cranial remoulding therapy can be very effective. LOC’s custom orthotic helmets gently guide your baby’s head growth, gradually achieving a more symmetrical shape.

The ideal time is between 4 and 7 months, as your baby’s skull is most flexible then. However, treatment can still work up to 14 months of age.

LOC offers extensive experience, cutting-edge LOCband Lite technology, and dedicated care tailored to each family. Our approach focuses on safety, comfort, and achieving the best possible outcomes.

The price covers everything: the custom helmet, all consultations, adjustments, and ongoing support from our specialist team.

We usually recommend reviews every two to three weeks. These help us monitor progress and make any needed adjustments.

Torticollis is when a tight or shortened neck muscle causes the head to tilt to one side. This often leads babies to rest their head in the same position. In 2013, our Kingston Clinic found that 20% of babies had a neck condition affecting head mobility.

Helmet therapy gently guides your baby’s skull growth, helping it reshape while their growth is rapid.

Yes, we will. Our specialists assess each child individually and only recommend helmet therapy if it’s genuinely needed. We’re here to provide clear, honest advice tailored to your family.