Scoliosis Treatment & Surgery

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, which often develops during childhood or adolescence.

While the cause of scoliosis is often unknown, certain types can be linked to congenital conditions, neuromuscular diseases, or degenerative spinal conditions.

The curvature can vary in severity and may result in symptoms such as uneven shoulders or hips, pain, and difficulty breathing in more severe cases.

Symptoms of Scoliosis

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• Visible curve in the spine
• Back pain or discomfort
• Fatigue due to misalignment of the spine
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

Diagnosis and Non-Surgical Treatments

At CHRISTUS Health, we begin with a thorough diagnostic process that includes a physical exam, X-rays, or other imaging tests to determine the severity and location of the curvature.

For patients with mild to moderate scoliosis, our treatment plan often focuses on non-surgical approaches, including:

• Bracing: Braces can prevent the curvature from worsening in growing children and teenagers. Our team customizes the braces for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
• Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve posture, and alleviate pain or discomfort.
• Pain Management: Medication or non-invasive pain management therapies may be recommended for symptom relief.

Scoliosis Surgery

For patients with severe scoliosis or those whose condition continues to progress despite non-surgical treatments, surgery may be necessary to correct the spinal curvature and prevent further complications.

At CHRISTUS Health, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in the latest surgical techniques to correct scoliosis and restore function, including:

• Spinal Fusion Surgery: One of the most common surgical treatments for scoliosis, spinal fusion involves joining the curved vertebrae together to prevent further movement. This stabilizes the spine and corrects the curvature.
• Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery: In some cases, our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to correct scoliosis, resulting in less pain, shorter recovery times, and reduced scarring.
• Advanced Spinal Instrumentation: Our specialists utilize the latest technology, such as rods, screws, and other spinal instrumentation, to stabilize the spine during surgery and promote proper alignment.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation

Following scoliosis surgery, our team of rehabilitation experts works closely with each patient to support their recovery.

We offer comprehensive physical therapy programs tailored to each patient’s needs, focusing on improving mobility, strength, and overall function.

Our goal is to ensure a smooth recovery and help you return to daily activities with as little disruption as possible.