What treatments are available for scoliosis?
The traditional medical management of scoliosis is complex and is determined by the severity of the curvature, skeletal maturity, which together help predict the likelihood of progression. The conventional options are, in order: 1. Observation 2. Bracing 3. Surgery Observation involves monitoring and basically adopting the wait and see approach. Bracing is normally done when the patient has bone growth remaining, and is generally implemented in order to hold the curve and prevent it from progressing to the point where surgery is indicated. Braces are sometimes also prescribed for adults to relieve pain. Bracing involves fitting the patient with a device that covers the torso, and in some cases it extends to the neck. A brace is usually worn 22-23 hours a day and applies pressure on the curves in the spine. The effectiveness of the brace depends not only on brace design, but on patient compliance and amount of wear per day. Bracing may cause emotional and physical discomfort. Physical a
