How many years do you think the study is going to last before you have all the answers?

The final report is expected to be due in November 2032, with results more widely available in early 2033.  Please see below for a timeline of the study:

• September 2021 – recruitment start
• October 2026 – recruitment end
• April 2032– follow-up end
• November 2032 – final report due

Who else is taking part in the study?

Young people between the ages of 10-15 years old who have been diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. We are aiming for a total of 780 participants from centres across the UK.

Having been involved with the trial, would the patients ever know the end result?

We hope to keep in regular contact with participants in the trial up until 2032 to check how they are getting on. We shall do this by sending regular newsletters and updates regarding the study and we hope you all will be as interested in the end results when the final report comes out as we are. Once results are available, we will provide an overview of the main points to patients who have taken part, as well as the wider population through scoliosis charities and other relevant patient groups.

What are the braces made from and can they be put in the washing machine?

The braces are lined with a soft non-absorbent padding that wipes clean with a warm cloth and mild soap then air dry. Do not put near a heat source as this will distort the plastic and could possible cause damage to the lining. IF you do find that the lining gets a bit stained or smelly then a little alcohol gel on a cloth rubbed into the brace should do the trick.

Is there a parent forum for discussions between parents to share concerns once allocated a brace?

We’d encourage you to reach out to the medical professionals or research teams if you have any concerns at all. They will be able to reassure you and help with any worries that you might have. You can also find additional support at Scoliosis Support and Research and read more about Scoliosis here.

Is there a brace club for children?

If you haven’t already, please do have a look at Scoliosis Support and Research. They’re a fantastic organisation who provide support and allow people with scoliosis to meet others with similar experiences. They have Twitter (X), Instagram, Facebook and regular meetings and other activities to attend.

Is there a video on how to put the brace on for the nurses/teachers at school if it is taken off at any time?

When dealing with schools we usually find this easiest if they can be shown directly by the parents once the child is wearing it to school. Most schools are quite supportive, and when made aware a child will be attending with a brace, they will often initiate a meeting with parents to discuss the needs and requirements they may have around school, like additional time for changing, access to disabled toilets for more space to change etc. As each brace can be a little different, parents showing them how it’s put on can be the most useful way of conveying how to do this.

The BASIS team have also developed a handy document with the British Scoliosis Society on Spinal Bracing Advice for Schools. We were able to develop this guide due to the vital feedback that BASIS participants and parents gave us through a series of interviews about bracing experience. 

We believe that this guide will give teachers a better understanding of how to best support their students who wear a scoliosis brace. 

You can find the guide here.

Where can I find more support for my mental health?

If you think you are struggling with your mental health, help is always available – please explore these links: 

• Samaritans
• Young Minds
• Breathing Space (Scotland)
• Shout

What should I do if the brace is causing me pain, or is rubbing or itching?

If you experience any problems with your brace, please get in touch with the research team at your local spine centre, and/or the orthotics team who fitted your brace. They will be able to give you advice for your particular brace, and if needed, can arrange adjustments or re-fitting.

What should I do if I no longer want to take part in BASIS?

Please get in touch with your local BASIS research team or your spine team and let them know. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, and this will not affect the ongoing care you receive for your scoliosis, and anything else. There are options for withdrawing from parts of the study if that is acceptable to you, and the research team can discuss these options with you.