How to Prepare for an Orthopedic Scoliosis Visit

Scoliosis, or a curvature of the spine, is most common in adolescent girls. The curving usually worsens during growth spurts, according to MedlinePlus. Signs of scoliosis are if one shoulder is higher than the other or if the pelvis is tilted. A person with scoliosis may also complain of frequent back pain, especially after standing or sitting for a long time. If you suspect that your daughter has scoliosis, take her to a doctor. It is not hard to prepare for a scoliosis visit.

Instructions

• 1

  Be prepared for a physical exam. The doctor will have the patient bend forward so he can define the curve of the spine. If there is a curve, the doctor will recommend an x-ray.

• 2

  Get a treatment plan based on the doctor's findings. The considerations will be how severe the curve is, the age the curve began, the time until growth stops and the location of the curve. Treatment falls into the categories of observation, bracing and surgery.

• 3

  Assess if the patient is still growing. Normally girls stop growing at around age 14 or until their first menstrual period. The scoliosis observation stage is for girls who are still growing, have curves less than 25 degrees who are still growing and less than 50 degrees for girls who are done growing.

• 4

  Determine if the patient needs a brace. The doctor will recommend a brace if the curve is between 25 and 40 degrees during the growth phase. The brace is to prevent the curve from worsening. It will not correct the curve. Girls wear the brace under their clothes until about two years after the menstrual cycle begins.

• 5

  Talk about undergoing surgery. If the curve of the spine is greater than 45 degrees while the patient is still growing or greater than 50 degrees after growth stops, the doctor will recommend surgery. Surgery will stop the spine from worsening and will straighten it as well. There are different types of scoliosis surgeries, so the patient will discuss these with her doctor.

• 6

  Exercise. If the curvature is not severe and does not require a brace or surgery, the orthopedist may recommend physical therapy or an activity such as dance classes to help alleviate pain and gain strength.