What is the appropriate wear time for a brace used to correct scoliosis in an adolescent?

The appropriate wear time for a brace used to correct scoliosis in an adolescent is indeed 23 hours a day. This extensive wear time is essential for the brace to exert continuous corrective forces on the spine, thereby helping to prevent further curvature and to potentially improve the existing spinal deformity. The brace is designed to be worn throughout the day and night, with a small exception typically made for hygiene needs or specific activities, such as swimming.

Inadequate wear time may limit the effectiveness of the treatment and could lead to progression of the scoliosis. Therefore, the recommendation to wear the brace for nearly the entire day reinforces the need for consistent use to achieve optimal results in managing scoliosis.