Scoliosis Treatment Options

You or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, x-rays have been taken, and now you've been given some measurements in degrees. If your diagnosing physician chooses, he/she may refer you on to an orthopedist, physical therapist, chiropractor, or other healthcare provider. Here's where your decision making comes in, big time.
It's very important that you understand, you cannot cure scoliosis. You will see many claims online, or advertised locally that make these claims. This is completely false. Management is the operative word with scoliosis today. Secondly, in the United States, the gold standard of medical care for scoliosis, is to "watch and wait." In simple terms, a physician may recommend bracing curves greater than 20 degrees, then monitor the patient. Unfortunately, they continue to brace and watch until the curves progress to 45-50 degrees. Surgery is recommended at 45-50 degrees according to orthopedists in the U.S.
Fortunately, we have access to research that points to other, more conservative options for treatment, instead of surgery. Please take a moment to read a study at www.scoliosisjournal.com/content/1/1/5. The title of the study is Indications for conservative management of scoliosis (guidelines). This was published in May 2006 and is very helpful in making decisions for treatment. Have a great day!