Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a twisting of the spine that occurs primarily in adolescence when the child is growing much faster, although it can begin at any age. For the most part doctors don’t worry too much about scoliosis if the curvature is small, but that does not mean they ignore it completely.

Typically if there is a curvature of the spine, the child should be checked once per year. If the curvature gets dover 23 degree which is about 1/2 of a 45 degree angle, external bracing is recommended.

At that point, I will usually send you to an orthopedic doctor who will monitor the curvature. If the curvature gets too severe the orthopedic doctor will usually recommend surgical bracing.

Although this looks like a simple thing to diagnose I can assure you it is not. The best way to diagnose scoliosis is with x-rays. A physical exam can be very deceptive especially if there is only a 10° curve.

Once the curve gets up over 45°, it’s time to consider surgery. You shouldn’t be afraid of surgery. Great results can be obtained through scoliosis surgery. Kids can begin to lead a more normal life after the surgery. Check the links below.

Links:

Bracing Questions for Teens

Expectations about Sports after Scoliosis Surgery