Treatment for a Curved Spine

Curvature of the spine, also known as scoliosis, is usually discovered while a child is still in adolescence. Abnormalities become more noticeable during a growth spurt. Once diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment options have to be explored. The way the spine is curving and the growth maturity level of the patient are taken into consideration when determining the best course of options for treatment.

Back Braces

• One method of treatment is back bracing. The primary goal of a back brace is to stop the progression of the curving of the spine. This treatment will not change the curvature that is already in place. As curvature takes place during the growth stage, bracing is continued until the child has completed growing.

  Two types of braces are used. The thoracolumbar sacral orthosis, also known as TLSO, puts three-point pressure on the area of the spine that is curving to prevent progression. Have the child wear this brace under clothing that fits loosely and for 23-hour time periods. When the child is swimming or playing sports, remove the brace. The Charleston brace puts more pressure on the spine and works to bend the child against the direction of the curve. Place this brace on the child only at night during sleep.

Surgery

• Surgery is often necessary to treat a curved spine. This type of surgery has risks. There is a lot of exposed area and a number of muscles are stripped during surgery. Another risk is excessive blood loss. Donate blood or have the child donate blood, so that if there is blood loss, the replacement blood is from family members or from themselves.

  The hospital stay is usually somewhere between four and seven days. Patients can begin to move around within two to three days. The child can look to return to school within two to four weeks. Limit his activity while the bone is fusing. The spine should be kept as immobile as possible, so that proper fusing takes place. Keep bending and twisting to a minimum during the first three months after surgery. Lifting should also be kept to a minimum. A back brace may be necessary for a brief period after surgery.

  Restrict physical contact activities or activities that jar the body for 6 to 12 months. The physician will monitor the fusion process with Xrays and examinations for one to two years after surgery. No other treatment is necessary once the bone has completely fused.