My niece Eva is an aspiring gymnast who enjoys displaying her talents at home or in inter- school competitions. Her posture is so straight and tall that I was wondering if gymnastics or other types of sports such as ballet or swimming would be beneficial for kids suffering from scoliosis. It seemed logical that stretching the back and balancing on beams might have a positive impact on a scoliosis sufferer her age. Eva is now twelve and I am so pleased with the way she carries herself. I always believed that the reason for her straight posture was all the exercising and stretching that she performed on a regular basis at her gym classes.

Gymnasts such as Eva practice a wide range of exercises from foot splits to sophisticated flips and other extreme muscular movements. She spends lots of her time at the local gymnastics studio (two-hour sessions twice a week plus practice at home.) Some of her moves include horizontal, uneven, and parallel bars, and balance beams.

Childhood scoliosis sufferers whose curves are reasonably low can sometimes beat the brace by physical therapy or else undergo a combination of bracing and physical therapy simultaneously. After checking out a few websites on the relationship of gymnastics and scoliosis I was quite surprised and disturbed by the different opinions of professionals in the scoliosis field. Some were adamantly against any kind of movements that required stretching and balancing exercises for scoliosis sufferers while others were okay with gymnasts who were diagnosed with scoliosis continuing their gymnastics interest.

What really floored me was that basically all the articles that I read gave alarming statistics that gymnasts had a higher incidence of scoliosis than the general population. That is not to say that scoliosis is brought on by gymnastics only that some types of motions can sometimes intensify the already present issues. The recreational types of gymnastics should not cause problems however the more sophisticated and professional moves like landing on hard ground or extended stretches can negatively impact the spinal curvature already present.

Athletes such as swimmers, dancers, and gymnasts repeatedly lengthen their thoracic spines. For example, the back bend involves thoracic spine lengthening which can make the vertebrae turn and move deep down into an opening that is part of the already present scoliosis curve. Another athletic concern is spinal compression which is the result of hard landings on the floor. Whenever a child runs or actively applies lots of tension on the spine, the scoliosis problem can become worse.

As a concerned aunt I wanted to make sure Eva was not doing anything to exacerbate an innate problem that her family was not aware of. I realized that with the tight-fitting uniform that adorns a typical female gymnast it would be easy to spot the signs of scoliosis, some of which are, protruding ribs, uneven shoulders, and spine curvature. I wondered if the instructors were advised to look out for these imperfections in their students. In lots of schools there is a mandatory medical check-up that is performed to watch out for this condition in all students. With some kids wearing loose t-shirts or sweatshirts it would be hard to ascertain who has what. But I would think that any gym instructor should be advised to look out for scoliosis in their charges if it’s true that scoliosis is more prevalent in gymnasts.

These are some of the symptoms that parents, teachers and recreational and sports instructors should be aware of: single hip protrusion, shoulder not level or protruding, a tilt of the head or clothing that is not laying properly on the body.

According to the UK Scoliosis Clinic, gymnasts are up to twelve times more inclined to develop scoliosis than non-gymnasts. Rhythmic gymnasts are ten times more likely to develop scoliosis than the general population and ballet dancers have a 24% prevalence of scoliosis.

Why should this be so? Some point out that scoliosis patients have a higher incidence of joint laxity than the general population at large making them more flexible and therefore able to perform moves that other find remarkably difficult to fathom.

What happens when you have a young nine-year-old girl who absolutely loves gymnastics? Such a girl is Ellie Ruth. Ellie was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was just nine and her parents had several choices to deal with. I would actually call them dilemmas. We all encourage our children to make the right choices in the sports activities they participate in and Ellie’s parents were no different. With such a talented and agile candidate why wouldn’t they encourage her passion for gymnastics?

Finding the right specialist in their hometown of Richmond, Victoria, Australia was no easy feat. But search they did and found a wonderful scoliosis specialist, Dr. Kris Lundine associated with Epworth hospital in Richmond who began treatment immediately. Although bracing is usually a full-time treatment, this doctor used a different approach with nighttime treatment with the Rigo-Chêneau Brace and Schroth therapy. Although some doctors discourage the continuation of any extreme sport, Ellie’s doctor used gymnastics to her advantage and encouraged Ellie to stay strong in her core. Although her curve still needs improvement in terms of degrees, she is continuing her vigorous gymnastics schedule. She visits her doctor every six months and so far, there is no reason for the dreaded spine surgery that some specialists recommend. Ellie is competing in many competitions across Melbourne, Australia and has racked up 15 medals as of this writing. Ellie is living proof that you can continue the rigorous regiment of gymnastics while combating the serious condition of scoliosis. Our hats off to Ellie.

It is still up in the air as far as a universal opinion of allowing athletes such as gymnasts to continue their routines while being treated for scoliosis. Each specialist will have their own treatment plans. The majority of children with scoliosis have curves that are relatively subtle.

Bracing and physical therapy along with their regular sports routine works out fine. In fact, there are some professionals who believe that physical activity lowers the risk of scoliosis progression.

There are many good reasons for an athlete with scoliosis to keep their normal sports routine. Positive impacts on the health of a scoliosis patient from continued sports participation including gymnastics include increased bone density, increased aerobic power and of course cardiovascular health. And don’t forget the patient’s very important self-image. Scoliosis patients who exercise regularly have higher self-esteem and are healthier psychologically at the conclusion of their treatment. It’s hard enough to wear a brace and sometimes have to change a child’s wardrobe to a looser style. Taking away their favorite passion is certainly not beneficial neither to their physical or emotional well-being.

Rebecca Best is a famous gymnast who began competing when she was only five years old. Rebecca’s was diagnosed with scoliosis in 2005 with a curvature of about 40 degrees. She also suffered from back pain and wondered what the long-term effects would be to her scoliosis if she continued her gymnastics competitions. Luckily for Rebecca, her doctor did not see any reason for her to stop gymnastics and felt that the body strength that she was amassing would be beneficial for her in the long run. She has had to deal with all kinds of back pain throughout her career, but with therapy and deep tissue massage she finds the pain manageable. No wonder when someone is as passionate as Rebecca tries, she succeeds. In fact, she received a full athletic scholarship from Ohio State University in spite of knowledge that the college had regarding her scoliosis.

So, what have we learned from all these pro and con discussions and observations?

1. If your child has a passion for gymnastics, find a caring specialist who will incorporate gymnastics or any other sport that they love into their scoliosis regiment.
2. This may mean some modifications of their gymnastics routine temporarily or in some cases using this sport to help the patient combat their problem depending on where the problem is located, be it a hip or shoulder protrusion or the more typical spinal curve.
3. Try asking the gymnastics instructor if your child could use softer surfaces for ground landings when possible.
4. Let your child know that there have been many athletes who have spinal curves and have succeeded nevertheless in their particular sports arena.

Final Words

Gymnastics and scoliosis do not have to be enemies. With the right early diagnosis and treatment either with bracing, physical therapy or both, your child can continue developing her passion and excelling. A sensitive scoliosis specialist and physical therapist will develop a routine specifically geared to your child and use his or her agility for her own body’s benefit. There does seem to be some correlation with a talent for gymnastics and scoliosis, so it is crucial that parents and instructors be on the lookout for any unusual protrusions and curves. If caught early, scoliosis is much easier to treat so that none of your child’s competitions will be interrupted at all.

Maturing boys should be living up to their youth – playing wild games with their friends, sweating it out in the park, playing basketball, and experiencing the wacky voice-changing period.

Growing girls should thrive in their girlhood by taking an extra-curricular dance or gym class, biking, and playing ball (to stay fit) and their biggest worry should be their test grades.

But what happens when they can’t do all that with a carefree demeanor typically found in preteens – because of back pain?

Scoliosis is a devil that lodges itself in the back and causes significant discomfort.

Often, when children, both boys and girls hit puberty, and experience growth spurts, scoliosis can develop.

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine.

Scoliosis gets worse when left untreated.

Scoliosis hurts.

Why Shouldn’t I do Scoliosis Spine Surgery?

Sure, you can try spine surgery. Only, this is what you should know.

It is:

Traumatic
Invasive
Complicated
Painful
Causes wound infection
Prolonged recovery time

Scoliosis surgery is only recommended when the scoliotic curve is considered severe and is greater than 45 degrees.
If your child’s diagnosis is less than 45 degrees and moderate,
Take the scoliosis alternative treatment – a back brace.

But not just any back brace.

The Rigo Cheneau Brace.

Some people have a negative connotation with the word brace.

They think a brace is a flimsy contraption that offers temporary support.

Maybe there are braces like that.

But the Rigo Cheneau Brace – definitely isn’t.

Some people are hesitant, asking questions like:

“Are the effects of a scoliosis brace lost once the brace is removed?”

“How long is this process?”

“Will my child experience discomfort?”

Parents want the best for their child. They want to give them the world, the sun, some glittery stars, and most of all – Comfort.

They’re apprehensive.

They’re worrisome.

And…

They’re undereducated.

Scoliosis care is quite complex, but it shouldn’t be.

Education on treatments that are effective for scoliosis is vital for your child’s health and well-being.

(If you’re one of these parents who are ready to learn, explore and educate themselves for their child’s sake.)

Are you reading on?

You’re a great parent.

Here’s An Award For Being The Worlds Best Mom 🏆

Let’s begin with addressing the most common question:

Can You Fix Scoliosis?

Firstly, be prepared to hear this from an old-school doctor.

“Oh, your child has moderate scoliosis. It’s not that bad. Don’t do anything.”

But, time and experience have taught us that neglecting scoliosis can result in an increase in severity.

Once the scoliosis is extreme – the only option is invasive spine surgery.

(Yes, you can go back to review the harmful effects of surgery, but don’t bother. If you’re considering trying a practical and comfortable solution, there’s no need for that.)

If you can prevent surgery – at all costs – do.

No one wants to place their child on a surgery table if they can take proactive measures and early interventions.

In severe cases, such as neuromuscular and continental congenital scoliosis, surgery is the primary option.

Yet, in the case of mild idiopathic scoliosis, surgery is a quick fix but not a necessity.
At all.

Prevent years of pain.

A brace, if worn as instructed, can completely heal scoliosis.

What Is The WCR Brace Solution?

The Rigo Cheneau Brace is a highly detailed and effective brace that is custom-designed to each patient’s pressure and breathing points. 

It is a thermoplastic brace designed to treat scoliosis conservatively while considering that scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity. 

The most impressive part of this brace? PROMISED COMFORT.

Raul Ferrera – the technical director at the Align Clinic Team, worked on developing this special brace to create a lasting effect. This brace is the advanced and fine-tuned brace designed inspired by Dr. Jacues Cheneau and Dr. Emanuel Rigo of Barcelona, hence the name.

Is The Rigo Chaneau Brace Comfortable?

The WCR device is constructed of a lightweight thermoplastic material called polypropylene. What was once cumbersome cage-like restrictive braces now is light and virtually unnoticeable. Most patients adapt easily to the brace after about one week.

Childhood Scoliosis Treatment:

You may wonder why you must take proactive measures if your child has been diagnosed with a moderate case of scoliosis.

Logic might tell you if it isn’t so bad – why mess?

Fear not; you aren’t alone in this.

There are two crucial reasons why you should consider treating scoliosis as an early intervention.

1. The severity might increase, and then only surgery will be effective.
2. Scoliosis causes embarrassment and social distress.

Many children have confided that they experienced shame and embarrassment from scoliosis.
Unfortunately, children might avoid social scenes, activities, or hobbies because of scoliosis.

They can feel embarrassed to show their back when swimming, wear loose clothes, or will wear their hair long for the sole reason to conceal their deformity. Although it isn’t their fault, they feel second best and have a big secret to carry.

Children were created like the spirit of the earth with energy and curiosity. Children, by default, should explore, play, and grow. Youth is a one-time gift, and unfortunately, some children can’t appreciate that gift. When a child carries a burden this big, it may result in stunted growth and social underdevelopment.

Allow children to be children again.

What Is The Schroth Method?

The Schroth method of therapy is to be used in conjunction with the Rigo Cheneau Brace.

The symmetry of the Rigo Cheneau Brace with the Schroth method of therapy is highly effective.

The Schroth method uses exercises customized for each patient individually to return the curved spine to a more natural position. The goal of Schroth exercises is to de-rotate, elongate and stabilize the spine in a three-dimensional plane.

So why isn’t everyone doing the Schroth method and Rigo Cheneau Brace?

Great question.

Sticking to a healing plan requires commitment and consistency.
Some children want to see the end goal sooner, so they remove the brace when they think they are done. Uh oh, mistake.

Suppose you are genuinely committed to wearing the brace for the optimal amount of time and religiously follow up on your Schroth therapy. In that case, you will see the magnificent results and straighten the curved spine.

So yes, you can fix your spine.

You can fix your back.

You can finally walk proudly with your head held high and your shoulders straight.

Below, you will find the answers to the questions many parents have.

So follow along as I drop some questions you, yourself, might have.

FAQ:

Q: Will the brace’s effect last after removal?

A: Of course, we would never offer a product that isn’t tested and proven.

Q: Is the brace painful?

A: As addressed above, there’s minor discomfort initially, but afterward, it’s super comfortable.

Q: How long does this process take?

A: On average, it may take 23 hours a day for 12-15 months, but customized care is our specialty, and the process time can vary. 

Q: Does my child need to wear this brace to sleep?

A: Yes, since the optimal hours to wear the brace per day is x amount, your child is required to sleep with a brace.

Why Should I Trust All This?

Hear what our patients have to say for themselves – and then be the judge.

“Lynn is pleased how thin the brace is and that it’s easy to wear under clothing.”

Dear Align Scoliosis Foundation,
My husband and I would like to pass on our gratitude for being chosen as recipients of the scholarship for our daughter’s WCR brace. Without Lynn mentioning this opportunity, we would have had an undue hardship. Lynn encouraged us to apply, and we are so glad we did. My daughter received her WCR brace last Tuesday and, so far, has adapted quite well. She was pleased with how thin it was and that it was easy to wear under clothing. After we received the brace, we bought her some new clothes to wear with it. She is a teenage girl, so fashion is significant to her. As parents, we are encouraged the brace won’t just hold her curve but hopefully decrease it while providing some rotation of her hips. We know we chose the correct brace and are so thankful for Emery’s expertise and Lynn’s knowledge of financial assistance. We can’t thank you enough and are so grateful to you and the foundation.
Sincerely, Jeremy and Julie N. – Green Bay, WI.

Want your child to be a success story?

Sounds too great to be true?

Well, it is.

It’s time for your child to experience a ground-breaking revolution of a comfortable solution for scoliosis.

Schedule Your Child’s Free Screening

With regards to your loved one, their suffering is about to end. 

You are taking the proper steps to ensure your child has smooth adulthood, increased healthy confidence, and a better, healthier, stronger version of oneself.

You are brave, 

You are strong, 

You are who you’re meant to be and you’re on the road to healing.

Often we are faced with a health challenge that we seek out care for and in return get multiple differences of opinion. Sometimes a family member may push us one way or the other based on their personal life experience. Other times it may be a friend in the medical field that guides us to a specific specialist to help steer the ship in the right direction towards a potential remedy. Unsure of what exact treatment is needed, we try to make the best decision with all of the collected information and hope and pray that it will have a positive impact on treating the condition.

When treating scoliosis there are multiple approaches to go about it and I, the writer, will not be recommending one. This is due to the fact that I never went to medical school and have never treated a patient with scoliosis. I leave that up to licensed orthopedics, surgeons, and doctors. However, I would like to lay out what a caregiver may hear when searching for a scoliosis treatment regimen in order that when riding atop the ship of scoliosis treatment options, you have just a little clarity and are able to make a more educated decision.

Why Can’t Scoliosis Just Heal Itself?

Assuming that the scoliosis is significant enough that you are reading this article, you need to know that it will not simply correct itself. Every healthy human being has some spinal asymmetry that gives a slight curve to a healthy spine. We were made that way in order for us to be more flexible allowing us to be mobile with proper spinal support. The problem arises when there is a curve of +10° which means that the individual has a condition referred to as scoliosis. Anything less than 10° would be still considered normal and not require treatment. 

When the spinal asymmetry has a curve of greater than 10° there is a fundamental problem with how the spine is supporting the body. Keep in mind that the spine is the central support structure for the body’s musculoskeletal system. When the spine begins to curve beyond the normal limit it impacts the whole entire body. This might mean one leg is longer than the next or that hips or shoulders are leaning to one side. Besides the pain that is present in people with scoliosis there is a major social element of looking different. Clothes don’t fit the same, pool parties are avoided, and patients begin to have the perception that everyone is looking at them. 

The spine will not revert back to a normal curve unless it is treated. It’s like a building built on a slight angle, that all the weight is leaning to one side rather than being distributed evenly. Scoliosis is the same way and when the weight is leaning to one side those bones and muscles are more strained which can result in pain. Leaving it won’t change anything especially if the spine is not fully developed as would be in the case of a young girl or boy. As a matter of fact, the curve could worsen and make it more difficult for them to do the basic activities kids love to do like playing sports. Finding the right treatment regimen may take some time but it must be addressed for the child’s well being. 

Are All Scoliosis The Same?

Not all scoliosis is the same. Some are flexible and not rigid while others are structural with rigid curves. Flexing out the scoliosis when the curve is set structurally won’t really do much. Pulling on the spine will not correct a person’s scoliosis because that is the makeup of the patient. It’s almost like trying to straighten out a warped piece of wood. If you do get it to straighten out with force it will revert to its original curve with little to no impact and change to its shape. Often chiropractors will implement a treatment regimen which includes laying the patient down on a therapy table and pulling their head while keeping the body in place. In theory what is supposed to happen is that the spine is supposed to get flexed and begin to straighten itself out. However, the makeup of the spine is to flex, rotate, and absorb impacts. This can include jumping, falling, or getting tackled in a football game. With each impact the spine will naturally flex in different ways to protect itself and the body it supports. Having a chiropractor pull on it might feel good but chances are that it will have little to no impact on treating the scoliosis. 

When Is It Necessary To Have Surgery To Treat Scoliosis? 

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons most scoliosis surgeons will agree that when there is a spinal curvature between 45° to 50° or higher surgery would be required to lessen the curve. Surgery will realign the vertebrae in the spine by fusing them together and create a more normal spinal asymmetry. The recovery for such a surgery is usually three to six months but the way each patient takes to the surgery may be different. In the end of the day it’s surgery and the body undergoes significant trauma to get back to itself. Many young athletes that have scoliosis will opt in for such a surgery as they are looking for a quick fix in order that they get back to a sports program. However, patients and caregivers need to know that not always does surgery fix the problem. The objective is to fix the curvature of the spine which should result in less pain and a better quality of life but not always that is the case. Surgery needs to be taken seriously and patients who go through surgery need to hope for the best and give themselves proper time to heal prior to getting back into a normal routine. 

Treating Scoliosis Through Bracing Therapy

Before opting in for scoliosis surgery it would be worth your while if you spend some time researching if scoliosis therapy is right for you. The good part about it is that it is non-invasive and won’t require a long recovery time. However, it will require the patient to be fitted with a brace that will help realign the spinal structure. The brace will be worn around the clock until the therapy is complete and the spine reverts back to a normal curve. 

Bracing is not a new orthopedic device that is used to help treat scoliosis. In fact, the first scoliosis brace was created by a French army surgeon by the name of Ambrose Paré in the 1500’s. He developed supportive braces that were used to treat spinal deformities for soldiers in the French army. The method of treatment was to use pressure from the braces to reduce the dislocation of the spinal asymmetry. 

Over the course of time bracing for scoliosis became more prevalent and the Milwaukee Brace, Wilmington Brace, and the Boston Brace were introduced to patients through the twentieth century. Each had their pros and cons but were rather bulky and hard for patients to wear for the 23 hour a day brace treatment regimen. With time brace creators had begun to make the brace sleeker, lighter, and perfectly formatted for the patient that helped making wearing the brace easier throughout treatment. In 1970, Dr. Jacques Cheneau of France and Dr. Emanuel Rigo of Barcelona, Spain introduced the Rigo-Chêneau Brace. This brace was designed according to each patient’s specific pressure points and allows many breathing points for comfort. The duo of a highly effective brace while keeping the patient comfortable would make it easier for an effective and shortened treatment plan for scoliosis. Bracing might not be for everyone but it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician to see if it might be an effective way to help treat your boy or girl’s scoliosis. 

Final Words

Seventy to eighty percent of scoliosis is referred to as “idiopathic scoliosis” which means that there is no common cause for the scoliosis. There are other types of scoliosis which we do know the cause of like neuromuscular scoliosis, degenerative scoliosis, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and congenital scoliosis. When a child has a spinal curve of 10° or higher it needs to be addressed and monitored to make sure if it does not worsen. Always ask the patient how they feel because scoliosis can sometimes be painful and make it difficult to treat. If the patient is treated with bracing therapy it may be difficult at first to get used to wearing the brace but keep in mind that it won’t be forever. As per the Rigo-Chêneau Brace most patients will get used to it within a week and can complete the therapy in about 12 to 16 months. 

If there is a significant curve in the spine of greater than 50° surgery might be the only option. Caregivers need to know that living with scoliosis is painful and it will not change by itself unless it gets treated. The spinal structure needs to be attended to and until then your loved one will be living in pain and that’s quite unfortunate. Be smart and get it checked out while it can be treated. Once the spinal growth is complete it’s much more challenging to straighten out the spine.

“How’s your granddaughter feeling?” I inquired from my close friend Brenda when meeting her on the avenue. “The operation went well but after two weeks she is still in a lot of pain. My daughter, her mom, is trying to keep her pain tolerable with Motrin but she ends up having to go back to the stronger prescription that was given to her originally in the hospital post-operative.”

It’s such a struggle to come to terms with a diagnosis that your child will need surgery for correcting a severe scoliosis condition. Another example of a teen who underwent scoliosis surgery recently was a close relative of mine and her mother claimed that the operation was quite successful, and I am certainly a witness to the acute transformation from a slouchy kid to a teen who looks a couple of inches taller. When I asked her mom if there were any side effects from her surgery she answered, “Just one, she can’t bend her back”. Now we know that squatting is much healthier for the back than bending but practically speaking, this limitation can have great ramifications for a girl just beginning high school. Gym and sports are enjoyable pastimes and classes and I wonder how she is managing her restriction.

Most scoliosis surgeons believe that only a minute number of severe scoliosis conditions are dangerous from a life-threatening point of view. Included in this view are children under the age of five who have inborn spinal curves that would affect the performance of the heart and lungs. When the lungs are not fully developed there is a slight danger that a severe scoliosis curve could cause the heart to stop beating. However, most surgeons are in agreement that past the age of five, it is not life- threatening except in extraordinary situations.

Often, teenagers are put to surgery prematurely when their scoliosis curve measures over 50 degrees or when the child stops growing. When a doctor says, “surgery must be done immediately” does this announcement leave no other option? Let us explore the facts, benefits and risks of spinal surgery to correct scoliosis.

There are generally two types of scoliosis surgeries which are being used and have been used in the past. The first, posterior (patient lying face down) is when the patient’s curvature involves the upper thoracic spine. The second type of surgery is anterior surgery which involves a cut that follows the bottom ribs ending in an up-down direction above the navel which accesses the lower spine in an easier manner.

Another newer method of surgery that has been recently developed called Tethering uses “growing rods”. Other recent advances include fusionless procedures such as VEPTR – vertical expandable prosthetic titanium ribs (Invented by Dr. Robert Cambell of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia). This system uses a curved metal rod that is surgically attached to a child’s spine or ribs hooked up on both ends of the device. This method is usually used to treat a congenital condition that prevents normal lung development).

Another novel technique, vertebral body spinal stapling, is a possible alternative to bracing for patients who are at risk for a speedy progression of the curve, and who may need a spinal fusion in the future.

One Person Who Defied the Odds

Meaghan Duggan was diagnosed with major advanced double curve idiopathic scoliosis when she was fourteen years of age. Meaghan was put into a brace immediately. Meaghan learned that 90% of patients with as severe a curve as hers need a spinal fusion operation. Being in a lot of pain along with the normal pressures of teenage life turned her into a real fighter. Keeping herself braced for twenty-three hours of the day, Meaghan defied all odds and her stats changed remarkably and there is essentially no probability that she will ever need surgery. Meaghan beat the odds and she is now giving other girls with her condition the strength and confidence to work hard and show the world that there is an alternative.

Meaghan must have amazing parents who did not listen to the experts and tried bracing and won. There must be lots of determination to beat the odds when you are in pain both physically and emotionally.

A Surgery Survivor

When beautiful Katie Fitzpatrick, was eleven years old she was examined for scoliosis at an annual school checkup as required at that age. After rechecking her back a few days later, the nurse sent Katie home with a letter for her parents with Katie trembling with fear that something was terribly wrong with her. When her parents finally revealed to her that she probably suffered from scoliosis, Katie then noticed that night that her shoulder blades and hips were uneven. Wow was Katie upset!

At an appointment at the pediatrician a few days later, Katie was informed that she did have a curvature of the spine and only x rays could determine the severity of the curve. A specialist at Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia informed her a week later after reading her scans that she was a candidate for surgery and at this point bracing was not an option!

Although Katie’s curvature was about 43% (much less than Meaghan’s) she was not given the option of bracing. Dr. Amar Samdani of Shriners Hospital for Children in Philadelphia was chosen as her surgeon.

The Tether-Vertebral Body Tethering Surgery

Dr. Samdani prescribed Verbal Body Tethering (VBT), at the time, (2014) an experimental procedure that had the distinct advantage of leaving the patient with almost total flexibility.

In the past if bracing did not work the next step was spinal fusion surgery. Metal rods are implanted along either side of the spine to correct the curve. Although spinal fusion is a good choice, patients find that tethering maintains the natural motion of the spine optimally.

By using the patient’s own growth process, the Tether straightens the spine. This is called “growth modulation”. The tether has the exclusivity of being the only process that treats scoliosis while the child is still growing and the growth itself is what repairs the curve. It’s sort of like an “internal” brace for your spine. As opposed to spinal fusion, tethering uses no metal rods. Katie was young enough to take advantage of this surgical method since she was still growing.

Katie’s Recovery From Surgery

Although Tethering sounded like an amazing improvement over spinal fusion, Katie’s recovery was far from uneventful. Leaving the hospital after five days, Katie needed to be homeschooled since she could not do much physically. After six weeks she was practically 100% recovered and was able to go back to school and partake in all school activities including her favorites volleyball and swimming.

Wait! Katie’s challenges were not quite over. In fact, the worst was yet to come. Six months after her first surgery, Katie was informed that she needed additional surgery to correct spondylolisthesis (slip-disk). Although they knew before her first surgery about this second condition, the doctor did not think she would need correctional surgery for the slip-disk. The second surgery was a mini fusion in the lumbar section of the spine.

Two months later, Katie’s second surgery was performed and the recovery from this surgery was much harder than the first. Our heroine had to endure both types of surgery within a year, Tethering and spinal fusion, nevertheless, Katie recuperated completely and was able to return to school the following year.

The Harm Study Group

The treatment of Idiopathic Scoliosis is a constantly changing field. Therefore, Professor Jeurgen Harms, a spinal deformities surgeon came up with the idea of having the most trusted surgeons pool their resources and knowledge to help each other and their patients. In 2011, a handbook was published titled, Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis which was translated into several foreign languages presenting completely unbiased research in the field. Dr. Peter Newton, one of the physicians in the group says that their goal is find a cure for scoliosis and the be a think tank for professionals to share their different medical strategies.  

Final Words

We have attempted to give you a glimpse into the complicated world of scoliosis surgery. Surgery for scoliosis is not a medical emergency the same way that a ruptured appendix must be dealt with. If your child has a serious cobb spine curvature and surgery is recommended you should try to avoid it if possible. Sometimes trying even harder with physical therapy and more serious bracing might be the difference between surgery or not. Unless your child is suffering from a severe spinal deformation from birth that affects their breathing and heart, please check out more than one orthopedic doctor who specializes in Idiopathic Scoliosis.

If surgery is a must check out the new options available that are either less evasive or less risky such as Tethering, VEPTR and vertebral body spinal stapling. Organizations such as the Harm Study Group which is associated with the Clear Institute are knowledgeable on the latest possible advances on bracing and surgery for Idiopathic Scoliosis. Even if your child’s back is seriously curved, he/she can still beat the odds as Meaghan Duggan did.