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Pectus Bracing at Woods Orthotics
Helping patients with pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum using the full Steeper brace range
What Are Pectus Deformities?
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Pectus Excavatum (sunken chest)

The breastbone and ribs grow inward, creating a hollow appearance. Some patients experience breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance or cosmetic concerns.

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Pectus Carinatum / Recurvatum (protruding chest)

The chest wall pushes outward due to uneven rib and sternum growth. This may cause discomfort, difficulty with clothing or self‑consciousness.

Bracing is most effective during growth, when the chest wall is flexible and responsive.

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Overview
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Pectus bracing is a non‑surgical treatment used to help reshape the chest wall in people with pectus deformities. At Woods Orthotics, we use a range of pectus braces from Steeper, including:

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  • Pre‑made adjustable braces

  • Custom‑made braces designed for more complex chest shapes

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This allows us to match the brace to your age, chest flexibility, severity of deformity and treatment goals.

We provide bracing for:

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  • Pectus excavatum (sunken or caved‑in chest)

  • Pectus recurvatum / pectus carinatum (protruding or “pigeon” chest)

The Pectus Brace Range

​There are several brace options to suit different chest shapes and treatment needs, we work with an excellent manufacturer, Steeper:

Pre‑made adjustable braces

  • These are pre‑fabricated devices available in a range of sizes. They include adjustable pads and tensioning systems that allow the Orthotist to tailor pressure to the area being corrected. These braces are suitable for many patients and can be fitted quickly

Custom‑made braces

  • For more complex or asymmetrical chest shapes, Steeper also offer custom‑made braces. These are designed specifically for your chest using detailed measurements or scans, providing a more precise fit when required.During your assessment, we will determine which brace type is most appropriate

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How pectus bracing works

 

Pectus braces work by applying gentle, sustained pressure to the area of the chest that is sunken or prominent.

  • For pectus excavatum: Bracing may support posture and chest wall positioning, often alongside physiotherapy or consultant‑led plans.

  • For pectus recurvatum / carinatum: Targeted pressure helps guide the chest wall towards a flatter, more typical contour over time.

Regular adjustments ensure the brace continues to apply effective pressure as your chest responds and grows.

Assessment at Woods Orthotics

Your Orthotist will:

  • Review symptoms, activity levels and any previous investigations

  • Examine chest shape, flexibility and posture

  • Consider consultant letters or imaging

  • Discuss your goals and expectations

  • Recommend the most suitable brace (pre‑made adjustable or custom)

We will explain expected wear time, likely outcomes and the commitment involved before starting treatment.

Brace fitting and adjustment

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Depending on the brace type selected, fitting may include:

  • Choosing the correct size (for pre‑made braces) or scanning for a custom brace

  • Positioning adjustable pads over the area to be corrected

  • Setting tensioning straps or ratchets

  • Adding soft linings for comfort

  • Making regular adjustments as your chest changes

You will be shown how to apply the brace, check positioning and care for it.

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Wearing schedule and treatment duration

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Your plan will be personalised, but typically includes:

  • Break‑in period: Short periods of wear at first

  • Correction phase: Longer daily wear to maintain consistent pressure

  • Total duration: Often several months or longer, depending on age, flexibility and severity

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Regular reviews allow us to monitor progress and adjust the brace.

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Follow‑up and ongoing care

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We provide:

  • Routine review appointments

  • Brace adjustments

  • Monitoring of skin and soft tissue

  • Support around school, work, sport and daily activities

  • Communication with your consultant or GP when needed

Is pectus bracing right for you?
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Pectus bracing may be suitable if:

  • Your chest wall is still growing and flexible

  • You are motivated to wear the brace consistently

  • You have cosmetic or functional concerns

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Book an assessment
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If you or your child has pectus excavatum or pectus recurvatum and would like to explore bracing:​

Contact Woods Orthotics directly to arrange a pectus assessment

We will guide you through your options and help you decide which brace is appropriate.

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