Supporting Your Child with Scoliosis: Nonsurgical Solutions and Care Tips

When your child has scoliosis, the treatments can vary, and as a parent, you should seek early intervention to learn how to manage the condition properly. From pediatric orthopedic spine surgeon at Riley Children’s Health, Daniel Drake, MD, he guides you on scoliosis and how to treat it with nonsurgical treatments.

“There are so many ways to treat and manage scoliosis,” Dr. Drake said. “For severe cases, it often requires surgery, for example a spinal fusion procedure. In less severe cases, the goal is to manage the progression of scoliosis with nonsurgical options.”

What is childhood scoliosis?

Commonly seen in children as they grow, scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves in different directions. Oftentimes the cause is unknown, although it is more common in girls and can run in families. The three common types of childhood scoliosis include:

• Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (most common form)
• Congenital scoliosis (present at birth)
• Neuromuscular scoliosis (caused by conditions like cerebral palsy)

In addition to the spine curving, scoliosis can sometimes impact other parts of the body, causing challenges such as muscular imbalance, skeletal deformities and behavioral concerns.

What are the nonsurgical treatments?

If you suspect scoliosis in your child, you should visit a specialist, where they will first perform a “forward bend test” to indicate if a curve is present. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans and MRIs may be used to further diagnose. If the provider determines a severe curve (45-50 degrees), surgery is typically recommended. If the curve is mild or moderate, there are several nonsurgical treatment options. These include:

1. Bracing. This is a custom-molded padded shell holding the spine in place. There are different types of braces available, and they work by applying pressure to the spine. Bracing is recommended for children with spinal curves of 20-40 degrees, and it is often used so the curve doesn’t get worse.
2. Physical therapy. The Schroth Method is a type of physical therapy specifically for scoliosis cases. This involves exercises aimed to strengthen the spinal curve.
3. Observation. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is another way to treat scoliosis. Frequent observation ensures scoliosis is detected early and treated correctly.

What are the lifestyle modifications and home care tips?

While spinal deformities are different for each child, there are common lifestyle modifications and home care tips you can follow to help with scoliosis, including:

• Ensure your child stretches and exercises regularly to strengthen the muscles of the core, back and lower extremities. This also helps with spinal alignment. Exercises such as yoga, pilates and swimming are good activities for managing scoliosis.
• Follow a balanced diet that includes nutrients like calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D to promote bone health. Such foods may include dairy products, greens, fatty fish and citrus fruits.

What are ways to cope with scoliosis?

Children affected by scoliosis may experience low self-esteem, body image concerns, anxiety and depression. As a parent, you may also experience a variety of emotions. Here are ways to cope with scoliosis:

• Education. Seek advice from a healthcare professional and do your research to fully understand your child’s condition. Knowing your child’s diagnosis is key to navigating the care journey.
• Supportive environments. You should always create supportive spaces and welcome open communication to release emotions. You might also join support groups to connect with others in a similar situation. Additionally, ensure family involvement is a key part of the process.

For more on how to support you and your child, visit SRS.org or curvygirlsscoliosis.com.

How can a parent collaborate with the care team?

When your child has scoliosis, you’ll likely partner with a team of healthcare providers to ensure your child is getting the right treatment personalized to their condition. As you make visits to the doctor’s office, always advocate for your child’s needs and preferences. Additionally, be flexible with treatment plans because as your child grows, needs may change depending on the status of your child’s curvature. Most importantly, ensure you are doing frequent follows up visits with your child’s care team.

Key takeaways

While there are surgical scoliosis treatments available for those with severe spinal curves, most scoliosis cases will be managed with nonsurgical solutions. As you embark on this scoliosis journey with your child, remember to always stay present, as that will be key to elevating your child’s overall quality of life.

“Regarding scoliosis, each case requires a different recommendation and treatment plan, and each child has their own needs. Our goal as spine experts is to provide comprehensive care that minimizes the need for surgery and maximizes positive outcomes,” Dr. Drake said.

For more about pediatric spine care, read this Q&A with Aki S. Puryear, MD, a pediatric orthopedic spine surgeon at Riley Children’s. To schedule an appointment with Riley Children’s Orthopedics, call 317.948.2550. A physician referral is not required.