My Child has Scoliosis: What Now?

The treatment options for scoliosis will depend on the severity of the curvature, the age and physical development of the child, and any associated symptoms.

 

Important data points to know following your child’s diagnosis

 

  • Skeletal maturity will dictate treatment options in addition to the Cobb angle. Risser grade is a common method of measuring skeletal maturity and is usually included in radiology reports from x-rays.

 

  • What is the Cobb Angle of my child’s spine? This is the measure of how severe the curvature of the spine is.

 

  • Less than 20°
    • This is considered Low Risk of developing severe scoliosis; although it is recommended to proactively address smaller curves. A Schroth PT may be an appropriate consideration for your child.

 

  • Between 20° and 25°
    • This is considered Moderate Risk of developing severe scoliosis. If your child has significant growth remaining they may benefit from undergoing some form of treatment

 

  • Greater than 25°
    • This is considered High Risk. It is advisable for you to consult with a scoliosis specialist to determine the appropriate treatment for your child.

 

Possible Treatment Options For Scoliosis

 

  • Observation: In some cases, mild scoliosis may not require treatment and may be monitored over time to see if the curvature worsens.

 

  • Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve flexibility, which can help to alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.

 

  • Schroth Treatment: Schroth treatment is a specialized physical therapy approach that focuses on correcting spinal alignment and improving posture in scoliosis patients. It involves a combination of exercises, breathing techniques, and corrective movements tailored to each individual’s unique curvature, aiming to halt progression and potentially reduce the severity of the spinal curvature.

 

  • Bracing: If the curvature of the spine is moderate and there is growth remaining, a brace may be recommended to help slow the progression of the scoliosis. Braces can help to realign the spine and prevent the curvature from worsening.

 

  • Surgery: In severe cases of scoliosis, surgery may be recommended to correct the curvature of the spine. There are several types of scoliosis surgery, and the specific type of surgery that is recommended will depend on the severity of the curvature and the age and physical development of the child.

 

It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your child’s scoliosis. They can provide you with more information about the potential risks and benefits of different treatment options and help you to make an informed decision about the best course of action. For more information you can read an in-depth analysis of treatment options for scoliosis.

 

Sources:

Stanford Medicine – What is Scoliosis

Management of Scoliosis

Dr. Vorhies and Dr. Michael Gardner from Stanford University Present – Beating Scoliosis Without Surgeries and Lifelong Back Pain