Thermoplastic braces such as the TLSO Boston brace places pressure pads over the convexities of the thoracic and lumbar curves in an attempt to correct lateral deviation and rotation. However, Dr. Chêneau of France in 1979 found these general correction principles insufficient, and as a result, he designed a Chêneau brace that endeavors to treat every aspect of the complex 3D deformity. The Chêneau brace is defined as a thermoplastic brace modeled on a hyper-corrected positive plaster-cast of the patient. The general correction principle is that of detorsion and sagittal plane normalization, which would correct the coronal and transverse planes, resulting in some elongation of the spine, without any significant distraction force. During the past few years, Dr. Rigo of Barcelona has furthered the development of the original Chêneau brace by combining his new classification of scoliosis Rigo et al., (2010), Wood, G.I., ISPO, Leipzig, Germany (2010) and Chen, R., Wood, G, (2010).

The Wood-Cheneau Rigo (WCR) spinal orthosis is a thermoplastic brace uniquely constructed to bring the trunk and spine into optimal postural alignment. The pressure points and expansion areas are located, shaped, and oriented to apply pressure to selected regions of the trunk, bringing the patient into the best possible 3-dimensional correction while maximizing comfort. The WCR brace concept employs regional derotation, using an unique pressure-system to guide frontal plane alignment and sagittal plane profile balance. Through this design, the WCR prevents lordotization of the spine while treating the patient’s scoliosis.