Car seat for 4 y/o likely to be braced for scoliosis

cande · May 21, 2011

On of my twin dds has infantile scoliosis. She is 4.5 y/o. We go to the orthopedist this week forour 4 month check, but "I know" we are at the point bracing is going to be required. I have no idea what the brace is like. But, since I fret alot, I am now adding figuring out any car seat issue to the list.

Does anyone know how\if will any brace impact what is the right car seat for her? Am I going to need a new seat?

She currently rides in a Graco Nautilus in my car with the 5 point harness on the 3rd slot (same in Grandma's car when she visits, so I have 4 nautili). She rides in an Evenflo Chase in a school bus that takes her back and forth from her blended inclusion preschool class. She is 40" and 37#.

Vdavis · May 21, 2011

Yes they do make specific seats for children wearing a brace. If you contact a medical supply company they will fit her into the right seat. Also if her dr writes a perscription and letter of necessity most insurance companies will pay for the seat.

cande · May 22, 2011

The idea of getting three new seats is a bit daunting. Doubt insurance would cover 1 for my car, one spare (grandma and others take her to various therapies) and one for the school bus...

So, the brace is often bulky enough a standard seat wont do? Bummer....

flipper68 · May 25, 2011

Really depends on the brace. There are braces that are worn only at night. . .

The ones I've seen are plastic, with a foam lining and velcro straps on the back. They add an 1" or 2" to the width of a child.

The two concerns I'd have are:
1) that the brace, especially the straps in the back would make sitting in the seat uncomfortable.
2) that the brace would add bulk behind the child and making harder to maintain good neck support, especially if she falls asleep.

It is a rigid brace, so compression isn't concern. I don't see a need for a special needs seat. In fact, I don't know of a SN seat designed for a scoliosis brace. SN seats provide additional restraint for big kids who can't remain safe in the seat belt alone and/or support for kids with low tone - not an issue when wearing a back brace.

Good luck with your appointment.

momtoo3 · Jun 4, 2011

I wore one of the hard braces in high school. It was a little uncomfortable to sit with it on so I took it off in the car. If the doctor would allow that then great, if not maybe start booster training and get a wide booster. I don't think if it is the same style brace I wore that a harness would work well. The brace did add a couple of inches on each side (left, right, front, back.)

cande · Jun 4, 2011

Thanks everyone, appreciate the input.

Car seat for 4 y/o likely to be braced for scoliosis

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