Many Questions

Ask questions over and over again! You or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis. If any of the abnormal curves measure more than 15 degrees, start asking many questions! Most importantly, ask questions of the right people. Parents are a good source, as well as physcicans, physical therapists, and orthotists. When deciding on treatment protocol, we consulted with 2 outside physical therapists, a college professor of physical therapy, our family physician, a pediatric orthopedist, 2 orthotists, and a scoliosis rehab center. Along with these consults, we also did LOTS of reading on the web.
Through these consults, we also contacted other parents across the U.S. who had chosen a conservative approach to scoliosis management. After much prayer and thought, we chose to pursue the Schroth method of treatment. This treatment was initiated in Germany many, many years ago. It continues today to be the treatment of choice for scoliosis patients in Europe. Here in America, we are only now beginning to get similar treatment. Scoliosis Rehab in Stevens Point, WI has 2 Schroth certified physical therapists on staff. They are very helpful in answering questions you may have regarding research, treatment, bracing, etc.
Be warned, choosing this new treatment will not be a "popular" decision to many. It is new to the U.S. and most orthopedists have not changed their standard care-the watch, wait, maybe brace, and operate. Be diligent in your search for information, ask lots of questions, and be patient to ensure the best decision for your family.

Stay the Course

Spring fever has hit our home! As the temperature rises, brace wear becomes a bit more challenging. We have found that a light application of baby powder significantly increases comfort and decreases irritation, during the warm months. A bit of encouragement is required to "stay the course" on brace "wear time". Since we have seen marked improvement over the last 6 months, brace wear and exercise must continue-we've seen great results! However, the temptation is to "take a break."
Remind yourself and your child of the long term goals here. Despite temptation, stay the course, and continue bracing and exercise. Stay focused on your goals!
Have a blessed day.

Celebrating Improvements

Our daughter had her first "out of brace x-ray" last week. Her abnormal curvatures have both been reduced to below 30 degrees. To comprehend the significance of this, keep in mind that she is at a Rissor score of 0, has had several growth spurts in the last 6 months, and normally the best that we could hope for is no change in her measurements. Her previous curves measured 33 and 30; last week they measured 27 and 24. Even with the + or - measurement error, her spinal abnormalities have not worsened!
Rigo-Cheneau bracing, combined with Schroth exercise is our treatment of choice!!

6 month x-ray

In my household, it's time for our first, 6 month, out-of-brace x-ray. Much prayer and anticipation goes along with this event. I plan to have the x-ray done in the next couple of weeks and will post results. It is recommended that x-rays occur no more than once each 6 months, to minimize radiation exposure. This will be a "report card" if you will, for our current treatment choices.

Why "watch and wait?"

As the mother of an eleven year old with scoliosis, I was not content to simply wait to begin bracing once her curves progressed further. I refuse to watch the deformity progressively worsen, and do nothing to attempt to manage/reverse the curves. Please be aware this is a typical plan of treatment in the U.S. Please also be aware that most of these curves will progress. I appeal to you parents/patients out there to be aggressive in your research, ask lots of questions continually, and be persistent and vigilant. You are responsible for your healthcare needs.

Considerations in scoliosis treatment

X-rays are our "report cards" for monitoring scoliosis. Unfortunately, with each x-ray, we expose our children to harmful radiation. It is highly recommended to minimize x-ray exposure. Make sure to pick up "hard copies" of x-rays before consultations with other doctors. Try to plan on having no more than 2 x-rays per calendar year.
Physical therapy can be extremely beneficial in the management of scoliosis. It is very important to understand some basics: Seek out a licensed physical therapist who has experience in scoliosis care. Currently, in the United States, there are a very limited number of Schroth certified physical therapists. These therapists have successfully completed coursework, in Germany or Spain, to become certified in Schroth therapy techniques. See the Scoliosis Rehab website for further information.
Remember, physical therapy treatment should not be painful, or increase pain. The "no pain, no gain" theory does not apply! It should mainly consist of patient education so that the patient may continue their individualized program at home, independently. Communication is very important as well.
Communicate often and openly to your physician. Again, there are many choices available, and building a good relationship with your physician will help you to gain his/her support in your treatment choices.
When consulting with an orthotist, talk to other scoliosis patients/parents first. Their input is invaluable when it comes to choosing the person who will be making braces for you. You will have many years of treatment, and it's best to find someone who you can trust will give you the best possible care.
Of course, insurance plays a large part in choosing providers. However, you, the patient is ultimately in charge of your care, and informed decisions can be made, irregardless of an insurer's desires.
Have a great day.

Muscle soreness

My daughter is one of these kids, with scoliosis, who experiences intermittant pain. Because she is growing very rapidly, tight muscles seem to be a constant problem. The folks at scoliosis rehab, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin instructed us in a thorough exercise program that really helps with trying to counteract the scoliosis. Stretching and positioning are so critical in successful management of scoliosis. Neverending committment to the program really benefit a scoliosis patient.
Gentle massage and cold packs give her some relief also. These are just "feel good" components that will not have much long term benefit (though cold will reduce inflammation), but go a long way in getting some "hands on" pain relief. Apply cold just until the area becomes numb, usually 5-10 minutes.
Check out more information regarding exercise instruction at Scoliosisrehab.com.