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Though the diagnosis of juvenile, adolescent, and adult scoliosis may be easy, determining the best approach to scoliosis treatment is not. Many factors must be considered before settling on one of the available scoliosis treatments. From assessing the degree and location of the curvature to predicting its future progression and analyzing the stage of spinal bone development, scoliosis specialists carefully consider the outcomes when formulating an approach to patient care. Read on to discover the available treatment options that may be considered for your spinal condition:
Observation: If scoliosis of the spine is mild and a patient has, or soon will, approached spinal growth maturity, scoliosis specialists may prescribe a treatment plan of careful monitoring. Should additional curvature be detected, a more aggressive approach to care may be advised.
Bracing: Spinal bracing may be used for patients with a Cobb measurement of 25 to 40 degrees who have not yet reached spinal growth maturity. While a spinal brace is not designed to correct existing curvatures, it is intended to prevent further deformity when worn as directed. Examples of spinal braces include:
- The Boston Brace: A low-profile brace worn under the arms for curves located in the lumbar (lower) and thoraco-lumbar (lower-mid) spine regions.
- Charleston Bending Brace: Worn only at night, this brace is designed to overcorrect a scoliosis curve by bending the spine toward the outward bulge of the curve.
- Milwaukie Brace: The first modern brace designed for the treatment of scoliosis, the Milwaukie brace is prescribed for individuals with curvatures of the high thoracic spine. This brace extends from the neck to the pelvis and features a pelvis girdle and neck ring.
Scoliosis Spine Surgery: For severe spinal curves over 50 degrees, scoliosis spine surgery may be indicated to improve spinal column alignment and alleviate disabling symptoms, such as severe scoliosis spinal and back pain. Spine surgeons use a technique called spinal fusion to reduce the curve and restore stability. How does it work? Spinal fusion surgery connects the vertebrae of the spine together with new bone called bone grafts. Additionally, spinal instruments may be used to stabilize the spine during the healing process.
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