How does the spine typically curve?
Dr. Flood: It’s typically a curve to the right side of the upper back so if they were to bend forward and touch their toes, and you look at them from behind, you would see that their back is a little higher on the right side. How does that interfere with their ability to move and flexibility? Dr. Flood: Scoliosis is typically not a painful condition, so sometimes it becomes quite advanced before it comes to the clinic, or before it’s noticed by a school nurse during a screening exam or pediatrician during a visit or a school physical. It doesn’t necessarily always limit their flexibility when they’re young, but if the curve progresses, it can have profound affects on their heart and lung functions. When you first saw Matthew, how severe was his scoliosis and what treatment approach did you think needed to be taken? Dr. Flood: Matthew came to me with an approximately 50-degree curve in the upper part of his back. He’s a very tall boy — very active basketball player. He wasn’t having sy
