What has been the traditional way to treat scoliosis in kids?
Dr. Flood: Traditionally, we monitor the children until they get to about 25 to 30 degrees and if they have significant growth remaining and have a risk for progression, then we would brace that child. For children who continue to progress despite being in a brace, we would offer them surgery to prevent or stop the progression. 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 pr
