How to Talk to Your Child About the Pectus Carinatum Brace?

1. First Step: Understand and Explain

Pectus Carinatum deformity can progress during childhood growth. This progression may negatively affect not only appearance but also functions such as breathing and posture. A chest brace helps the chest wall return to its normal shape. Explain to your child, in simple words, that this is a “treatment tool” designed to help them feel healthier and more comfortable.

2. The First 6 Weeks: Challenging but Valuable

The most critical part of the treatment is the first 6 weeks. This is the period when the brace needs to be worn the longest each day. Wearing it at school or while sleeping may be difficult for the child. However, after this stage, visible improvement in chest shape occurs, and the required wearing time decreases significantly. Tell your child clearly: “These 6 weeks are very important, afterwards it will be much easier for you.”

3. Relieving Appearance Concerns

Children may be worried that their peers at school will notice the brace. This concern can increase especially in summer with lighter clothing.

• Winter advantage: With thick clothing, the brace is not visible, making this period an opportunity for easier use.

• Summer motivation: “Thanks to the brace, your chest will look straighter, and you’ll be able to go to the beach just as you want.” This shifts visual concerns into motivation.

  
  

4. Overcoming Sleep Discomfort

It is normal for the orthosis to cause discomfort at night. Emphasize: “The first few weeks may be difficult, but as your body adapts, you’ll feel more comfortable.” Support your child with soft pajamas or helping them find comfortable sleeping positions.

5. Small Steps and Trial Periods

Set short, achievable goals for your child: “Let’s wear it at home after school today, then we’ll watch a movie together.” Dividing the wearing time into smaller parts at the beginning helps form consistent habits.

6. Giving a Sense of Control

Allow your child to put on the orthosis themselves. Let them personalize it with colors, accessories, or small stickers. This way, the orthosis becomes not just a “mandatory device” but “something of their own.”

7. Making Success Tangible

Showing results is a powerful motivator. Share progress through photos taken at check-ups, measurement results, or doctor’s comments. A simple phrase like “Look, your chest looks much straighter already!” makes the process more concrete.

8. Timely Intervention During Growth

Tell your child: “As you grow, the shape of your chest also changes. If we treat it now, we can stop the deformity from progressing, and it will improve much faster.” This helps them understand the long-term benefit of consistent use.

9. Positive Language and Rewards

Instead of saying “If you don’t wear it, it will be bad”, use positive language like “The more you wear it, the stronger you become.” Small rewards such as quality time together or special weekend activities can boost motivation.

10. Conclusion: Patience and Partnership

Chest orthosis treatment requires patience and consistency. But remember: children who wear it regularly during the first 6 weeks have a shorter and more successful treatment journey. Consider this period as a shared journey with your child — this will strengthen their participation.

✨ Remember: The most effective way to convince your child is through love, empathy, and trust. The chest orthosis is not just a medical device, but a key to a healthier and more confident future.

For more information: info@pectuslab.com