Spinal Orthotics
Scoliosis & Spinal Bracing: The Rigo Concept Journey
Scoliosis bracing in JohannesburgA scoliosis diagnosis whether discovered through routine screening, a physiotherapy referral, or a paediatric review — can leave families with more questions than answers. At Gibson Orthotics, scoliosis management is one of our highest specialisations. We hold Level 2 certification in the Rigo Concept (Rigo Chêneau), one of the most clinically validated three-dimensional bracing systems available for idiopathic and neurological scoliosis.
Our clinic serves patients across Johannesburg, Sandton, Midrand, and the greater Gauteng region from our specialist rooms at Little Village Kyalami.
When should you see a Specialist Orthotist?
Scoliosis is most effectively treated when caught early. You should schedule a consultation if:
Our clinic serves patients across Johannesburg, Sandton, Midrand, and the greater Gauteng region from our specialist rooms at Little Village Kyalami.
When should you see a Specialist Orthotist?
Scoliosis is most effectively treated when caught early. You should schedule a consultation if:
- A screening showed a curve: Your school nurse, physiotherapist or pediatrician noticed an asymmetry in the ribs or shoulders.
- The "Wait and See" approach is over: Your doctor has confirmed a Cobb Angle (curve) that requires active bracing.
- Current brace discomfort: Your child has an existing brace that is painful, causing skin breakdown, or no longer fits.
- Seeking a Specialist: You want a brace based on the Rigo Concept, which focuses on three-dimensional correction rather than just pushing the spine from the side.
What makes the Rigo Concept different?
Why Rigo Concept?
Most spinal braces apply lateral pressure to push the spine toward midline. The Rigo Concept takes a fundamentally different approach: it treats scoliosis as a three-dimensional deformity and designs each brace with both corrective zones and deliberate expansion zones — areas where the patient actively breathes and moves to encourage the spine to rotate back toward a more natural alignment.
This distinction matters clinically. The Rigo Concept is supported by a growing body of peer-reviewed literature and is endorsed by SOSORT (Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment) guidelines as a conservative management option for curves between 20° and 45° Cobb. Gibson Orthotics holds one of only a small number of Level 2 Rigo certifications in South Africa.
This distinction matters clinically. The Rigo Concept is supported by a growing body of peer-reviewed literature and is endorsed by SOSORT (Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment) guidelines as a conservative management option for curves between 20° and 45° Cobb. Gibson Orthotics holds one of only a small number of Level 2 Rigo certifications in South Africa.
Scoliosis in children with neurological conditions
Neuromuscular scoliosis arising secondary to conditions such as cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida presents differently from idiopathic scoliosis and requires a distinct clinical approach.
These curves are typically longer, involve the pelvis, and progress at a faster rate.
Standard idiopathic bracing protocols cannot be applied without modification.
These curves are typically longer, involve the pelvis, and progress at a faster rate.
Standard idiopathic bracing protocols cannot be applied without modification.
Dedicated InterestGibson Orthotics has a dedicated interest in neuromuscular scoliosis management. Our assessment process for these patients includes evaluation of seating posture, GMFCS or functional mobility level, hip status, and respiratory considerations where relevant.
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Brace DesignBrace design is adapted to the individual's postural needs — which may mean modified thoracolumbar sacral orthoses (TLSO), hybrid seating-brace solutions, or coordination with a multidisciplinary team including physiotherapy, paediatric neurology, and orthopaedics.
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ScreeningIf your child has a neurological diagnosis and has not yet been screened for scoliosis, we recommend a proactive assessment. Many progressive curves can be managed conservatively when identified early.
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Your Rigo Concept journey: step by step
1. Clinical evaluation and X-ray review
We review existing imaging and conduct a full physical assessment including Cobb angle measurement, rotational assessment (ATR), and postural analysis.
2. High-definition 3D scanning
Using structured-light 3D scanning, we capture a precise digital model of your child's torso in seconds. No plaster, no mess, no discomfort.
3. Rigo Concept brace design
We classify the curve pattern according to the Rigo classification system and design a brace with individualized corrective and expansion zones mapped to your child's specific curvature.
4. Fitting, education, and follow-up
At the fitting appointment, we verify corrective zones, provide wearing schedule guidance, and establish a monitoring plan including in-brace X-ray review where indicated.
We review existing imaging and conduct a full physical assessment including Cobb angle measurement, rotational assessment (ATR), and postural analysis.
2. High-definition 3D scanning
Using structured-light 3D scanning, we capture a precise digital model of your child's torso in seconds. No plaster, no mess, no discomfort.
3. Rigo Concept brace design
We classify the curve pattern according to the Rigo classification system and design a brace with individualized corrective and expansion zones mapped to your child's specific curvature.
4. Fitting, education, and follow-up
At the fitting appointment, we verify corrective zones, provide wearing schedule guidance, and establish a monitoring plan including in-brace X-ray review where indicated.
Frequently asked questions about Scoliosis and Spinal Brtacing
At what Cobb angle should my child start bracing?
Current SOSORT guidelines recommend considering bracing for curves between 20° and 45° Cobb in skeletally immature patients. Below 20°, close monitoring is typically recommended; above 45°, surgical consultation is usually advised. Your orthotist and treating physician will consider skeletal maturity (Risser grade), curve location, and rate of progression together.
How many hours per day does a scoliosis brace need to be worn?
Evidence supports wearing schedules of 18–23 hours per day for optimal correction outcomes. At Gibson Orthotics, we individualize wearing schedules based on curve severity, patient age, and compliance capacity, and review these at every follow-up appointment.
Can the Rigo Concept brace be used for scoliosis caused by cerebral palsy?
Yes.
Gibson Orthotics has a specific interest in scoliosis management in children with neurological conditions including cerebral palsy, SMA, and muscular dystrophy.
Brace design for neuromuscular scoliosis differs from idiopathic scoliosis and requires specialist assessment.
We will advise whether bracing, seating modifications, or a combined approach is most appropriate for your child.
Is scoliosis bracing covered by South African medical aids?
Medical aid coverage for scoliosis bracing varies by scheme and plan. Many major South African schemes cover custom spinal orthoses when prescribed by a registered orthotist and supported by clinical documentation (X-rays, Cobb angle measurement, HPCSA registration).
We provide full clinical motivation documentation to support your medical aid claim.
Current SOSORT guidelines recommend considering bracing for curves between 20° and 45° Cobb in skeletally immature patients. Below 20°, close monitoring is typically recommended; above 45°, surgical consultation is usually advised. Your orthotist and treating physician will consider skeletal maturity (Risser grade), curve location, and rate of progression together.
How many hours per day does a scoliosis brace need to be worn?
Evidence supports wearing schedules of 18–23 hours per day for optimal correction outcomes. At Gibson Orthotics, we individualize wearing schedules based on curve severity, patient age, and compliance capacity, and review these at every follow-up appointment.
Can the Rigo Concept brace be used for scoliosis caused by cerebral palsy?
Yes.
Gibson Orthotics has a specific interest in scoliosis management in children with neurological conditions including cerebral palsy, SMA, and muscular dystrophy.
Brace design for neuromuscular scoliosis differs from idiopathic scoliosis and requires specialist assessment.
We will advise whether bracing, seating modifications, or a combined approach is most appropriate for your child.
Is scoliosis bracing covered by South African medical aids?
Medical aid coverage for scoliosis bracing varies by scheme and plan. Many major South African schemes cover custom spinal orthoses when prescribed by a registered orthotist and supported by clinical documentation (X-rays, Cobb angle measurement, HPCSA registration).
We provide full clinical motivation documentation to support your medical aid claim.