I can understand your apprehension about the brace and sensory issues. DD6 fusses that wearing a watch bothers her and has the sock issue too. It sounds like his knowing what to say to others will help him find the right things to tell himself as he deals with this challenge.
Bibliotherapy may also be a good approach.
Deenie by Judy Blume comes to mind as well as the story of Frida Kahlo. He may find more of a male perspective from other boys going through this on a message board:
http://www.spinekids.com/ Sorry to hear you're faced with this on top of everything else.
