Bracing
Bracing is a common treatment option for individuals with Scheuermann’s disease, particularly if the spinal curve is less than 75 percent. The primary goal of bracing is to reduce pain and improve spinal alignment. By wearing a back brace, the front-facing vertebrae are gradually moved to a more upright position.
It is important to note that bracing is most effective when an individual still has at least one year of bone growth remaining. Therefore, early intervention is crucial. Typically, the brace needs to be worn every day for one to two years in order to achieve optimal results.
Many patients have reported significant improvement in their spinal curvature, with an average reduction of about 50 percent. This treatment option has shown promising results in managing Scheuermann’s disease and alleviating associated symptoms.
Prognosis for Scheuermann’s Disease
The prognosis for Scheuermann’s disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, bracing therapy or surgery is usually not necessary. Many individuals with the disease do not experience any quality-of-life issues or ongoing pain. Interestingly, some adults who have been living with back pain for most of their lives may not realize they have Scheuermann’s disease until they reach an older age. Currently, research is focusing on the use of stem cells to alleviate the symptoms associated with Scheuermann’s disease, osteochondrosis, and degenerative disc disease.