From Scoliosis Patient to Pediatric Orthotist: Sophia’s Story
Sophia still remembers the day her scoliosis journey began because it wasn’t in a doctor’s office, but at school.
It was a routine grade-school scoliosis screening with the school nurse. When she returned to class, she realized she was the only student holding a letter recommending a follow-up visit with her pediatrician. At the time, she didn’t fully understand what it meant. She just knew something was different.
Her pediatrician confirmed the nurse’s observations and referred her to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. Even then, the diagnosis hadn’t fully sunk in. It wasn’t until she met with her orthotist for her evaluation that reality hit—she was going to wear a brace.
Looking back now, Sophia remembers feeling confused more than anything else. She didn’t yet understand scoliosis, bracing, or how much this experience would shape her future.
Learning to Live (and Sleep) in a Brace
Sophia was prescribed a nighttime scoliosis brace, meaning she only wore her brace while sleeping at home. While any type of scoliosis bracing can be challenging, nighttime wear allowed her to attend school and participate in extracurricular activities without her brace during the day which made a big emotional difference as a teen.
Once she adjusted to sleeping in her brace, it became routine. Eventually it even felt strange not to sleep in it.
She also learned early on that scoliosis treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many factors determine whether a patient wears a brace full time or only at night, and for the right presentation, nighttime bracing can reduce the emotional burden that sometimes comes with daytime wear.
The Power of a Support System
Sophia credits her success in bracing to the people around her.
Her first line of support was her multidisciplinary care team, her pediatrician, orthopedist, radiologist, and orthotist who were all working together. To Sophia, great clinical care wasn’t about a single provider; it was about collaboration.
Her family played an equally critical role. They helped ensure she met her wear time, donned her brace correctly, and never missed an appointment.
And then there was her best friend who was diagnosed with scoliosis shortly after Sophia and prescribed a full-time brace. Having someone her own age who truly understood made all the difference. They joked that when they wore their braces, they had “abs of plastic.” That shared humor and relatability helped normalize what could have felt isolating.
A Career Sparked by Care
Although Sophia’s story begins with scoliosis, her path into orthotics wasn’t immediate. She always knew she wanted to work with people and with her hands, and she explored several career paths before discovering orthotics and prosthetics.
One person made a lasting impression: her own orthotist, Cara. She took the time to explain every step, set clear expectations, and ensure Sophia felt comfortable both physically and emotionally. That care planted a seed.
Sophia remembers thinking, I want to pass forward the care that was given to me.
The moment everything clicked came during her first day shadowing at an O&P clinic as an undergraduate student. She observed a bilateral AFO fitting for a toddler with delayed motor milestones. By the end of the appointment, the child stood independently and even attempted a step. The parents were overjoyed.
That was it. Sophia knew: this was the work she was meant to do.
Choosing Pediatrics and Coming Full Circle
During O&P school, Sophia knew pediatrics was where she belonged. When she visited Boston O&P, now OP Specialty Bracing, she knew it was where she wanted to complete her residency.
Her New England residency included rotations across multiple Boston Children’s Hospital locations, exposing her to a wide range of diagnoses and pediatric specialties. She learned from dedicated clinicians and, after certification, stayed on as part of the team.
Sophia enjoys orthotics and prosthetics serve patients of all ages, diagnoses, and goals. Whether a child needs a scoliosis brace, AFOs, or a cranial helmet, the purpose is always the same: improving quality of life for that child.
Orthotics, she says, is the perfect blend of healthcare, art, and engineering and she feels honored to be part of the profession.
Caring for Kids with Lived Experience
Today, Sophia brings both clinical expertise and personal understanding to every patient interaction.
As a former scoliosis patient, the phrase “treat others as you would want to be treated” carries real meaning. She strives to provide the highest level of care not just because she’s been there but because every child deserves it.
When working with teens who may be struggling with bracing, Sophia focuses on listening and education. She helps families feel informed and supported throughout treatment. Often, it’s the parents who express the most gratitude when Sophia chooses to share her own story who are reassured by hearing from someone who truly understands the journey.
A Story of Care, Passed Forward
Sophia’s story is a reminder that pediatric orthotic care is about more than devices and diagnoses. It’s about empathy, trust, teamwork, and meeting kids where they are.
What began as a confusing school screening became a calling; one that now allows Sophia to support families walking the same path she once did herself.
Disclaimer:
OPSB products and products distributed by OrthoPediatrics Corp. and its subsidiaries should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Please consult your pediatrician or orthopedic specialist for professional advice. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions.
MAM-MM-166
