Treating Pediatric Scoliosis in New York
Treating Pediatric Scoliosis in New York
The National Scoliosis Foundation estimates there are more than 4 million cases of pediatric scoliosis in the United States today. Scoliosis is the most common musculoskeletal condition causing spinal deformity in children, while pediatric and adolescent scoliosis accounts for almost 50% of total cases.
At Scoliosis and Spine Associates, we’re dedicated to treating pediatric scoliosis in New York. We approach pediatric scoliosis from a conservative standpoint whenever we can, offering advanced surgical interventions only when necessary.
Bracing and observation.
Most children with pediatric scoliosis won’t require surgery. When the spinal curvature is 25-40 degrees, bracing can be highly effective for correcting it. When used, the success of bracing for curve correction is re-evaluated every 3-6 months. Once the child has stopped growing, evaluation is then conducted less frequently.
Careful observation to monitor the curvature’s progression or improvement is one of the most effective tools for treating pediatric scoliosis. This involves the use of diagnostics like X-rays and Scoliscan light-based surface topography. This technology monitors changes in the surface measurements of the body.
These changes sometimes tell us that X-rays are needed to take a closer look and to inform treatment options, moving forward. The longer patients wear a brace each day, the more effective treatment is, with the recommended time being between 16 and 20 hours.
Doctor-directed exercise.
While supportive research into the effectiveness of treating pediatric scoliosis with exercise is not conclusive, we’ve seen encouraging results using exercise for treating pediatric scoliosis in New York, at Scoliosis and Spine. Physical therapy and other types of exercise have been seen to relieve discomfort, difficulties with breathing and muscle fatigue.
Clinical trials are still being conducted, but we’ve observed that exercise can play an important role in making life with scoliosis easier for children who struggle with it.
Since the 1920s, the Schroth Method has been used to address scoliosis. Based on the understanding that scoliosis produces asymmetry in associated muscle groups, the Schroth Method seeks to re-institute symmetry through scoliosis-specific physical therapy. With programs designed for individual patients, Schroth seeks to teach children with scoliosis about their bodies and how to strengthen them.
Other effective forms of exercise are Pilates, Yoga, and swimming. All these therapies should be pursued under the close direction of a doctor, but they been proven exceptionally effective for muscle development in children with scoliosis.
Surgical options.
For children with a curve of more than 40 degrees, surgery should be carefully considered. Observation is pivotal for determining whether surgery is advisable, as waiting too long in severe cases can often result in resorting to more complex procedures to mitigate curve progression.
Scoliosis and Spine Associates – compassionate professionals.
Dr. Baron Lonner has treated over 20,000 patients in his 20 years in practice, particularly children and adults with spinal deformities. We’ve been successfully treating pediatric scoliosis at Scoliosis and Spine with tailored care that addresses the patient as an individual.
We’re compassionate professionals committed to quality care, delivering outstanding patient outcomes. We invite you to contact us to schedule a consultation.