3D Spinal Brace Printing Service Gives Nashita a New Lease on Life

Photo Credit: Mireille Wenger via Facebook

14-year-old Nashita Stellenboom, living with scoliosis, has spent a significant part of her childhood supported by heavy plaster of Paris braces. However, thanks to new 3D scanning and printing technology at the Western Cape Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre, she now has a lightweight, comfortable brace delivered in just two days!

Cape Town, South Africa (08 November 2026) – For many patients living with scoliosis, spinal injuries, and other conditions, a lightweight spinal brace can make a meaningful difference to their quality of life – helping to reduce pain, support recovery, and prevent further complications.

Now, getting these vital devices quickly and comfortably is becoming a reality.

The introduction of new digital 3D scanning and printing services for spinal braces at the Western Cape Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre (OPC) marks a significant step forward in patient-centred care within the public health sector.

The new 3D printer is a game changer for patients, cutting waiting times from two weeks to a matter of two days, says Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger. For children with scoliosis, getting a brace early can help prevent the curve in their spine from getting worse as they grow.

Photo Credit: Mireille Wenger via Facebook

One of the first patients to experience this innovation and its promise of relief is 14-year-old Nashita Stellenboom, who received her 3D-printed brace recently.

Born prematurely at 27 weeks, doctors were concerned about Nashita’s several potential health complications. It was not until a nagging cough at 10 years old led to a chest X-ray that they discovered she has scoliosis, explains her mother, Nailah.

“I have been wearing a brace for the last four years, but they were always the heavier plaster of Paris braces. This is much lighter. Wearing a brace has given me confidence. It has helped my posture and the pain in my back, and I can now do so much more. I can even play sport,” says Nashita.

She will continue to receive adjusted braces as she grows until she turns 18.

Her mother adds that they were offered the option of corrective back surgery or a brace, but chose to give the brace a chance as it has helped her back significantly.

“Her spine is improving. Before the brace, there were times when I saw her crying and lacking confidence in herself, and that is when I knew I needed to encourage her to wear the brace. Surgery is not always the only option, and we are so happy that we decided on the orthotic brace,” says Nailah.

Using advanced 3D scanning technology, patients like Nashita can now be scanned in a standing position within minutes while wearing light clothing. The scan is then digitally modified by clinicians, and the brace is produced using 3D-printing technology, resulting in a lighter, more precise, and more comfortable device.

The shorter turnaround time means patients with conditions such as scoliosis, pectus carinatum (pigeon chest), TB spine, compression fractures of the spine, and spondylosis can receive supportive devices within 48 hours at less than half the cost of a traditional plaster of Paris-based brace – helping to shape the future of rehabilitation services and ensuring that communities have access to innovative, high-quality care closer to home.