Scoliosis is a pediatric orthopedic condition in which the spine curves sideways, often forming an “S” or “C” shape. Pediatric orthopedic care for scoliosis focuses on correcting and stabilizing spinal deformities, as well as preventing further progression of the condition. This type of treatment can be used to help children with mild to severe cases of scoliosis manage their symptoms and maintain good physical health overall.
Let’s talk more about pediatric orthopedic treatment for children with scoliosis and where to go in Lauderdale Lakes and Pembroke Pines for top-of-the-line treatment for your child.
Early Diagnosis and Continuous Monitoring
It’s important to begin early intervention if you suspect your child is exhibiting the characteristics of scoliosis. The first step in treating pediatric scoliosis is a diagnosis by an experienced doctor who specializes in treating children with scoliosis, otherwise known as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. The doctor will examine your child’s spine, review your child’s medical history, and assess their lifestyle habits that could be contributing factors, including diet, exercise routines, posture, genetic predispositions, and the achievement of development milestones.
Treating pediatric scoliosis may involve observation with regular check-ups by your doctor every four to six months until skeletal maturity has been reached (which usually occurs around 16 years of age). During these visits, X-rays will be taken, which allow doctors to monitor changes in spinal curvature over time and determine whether further treatment may be necessary.
Wearing a Brace
Wearing a brace that fits your child specifically is usually recommended to help slow and potentially stop curve progression from worsening over time. Braces come in various shapes and size designed based on individual patient needs. Comfort and proper fitting are equally important when it comes to braces for scoliosis. These devices work best when worn consistently throughout the day.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is another beneficial form of treatment for pediatric scoliosis. The primary goal of physical therapy for children with scoliosis is to correct an abnormal posture that may be contributing to the worsening of their condition. Physical therapists use various techniques, including stretching exercises, muscle-strengthening activities, and therapeutic modalities (e.g., ultrasound), to achieve this goal.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
If bracing and physical therapy did not help with achieving the desired results, or if the curvature is severe, the doctor may recommend spinal fusion surgery. During spinal fusion surgery, two or more vertebrae in the spine (that are causing the abnormal curvature) are fused together with rods and screws, so they heal as a single, straight bone, improving the spine curvature.
A pediatric orthopedic surgeon has the training and experience needed to treat pediatric scoliosis through these treatments and more. Consult with the top pediatric orthopedic surgeons in Lauderdale Lakes and Pembroke Pines, FL to give your child the best chances at a successful treatment.
Pediatric Scoliosis Treatment in Lauderdale Lakes and Pembroke Pines, FL
The orthopedic surgeons at Total Orthopaedic Care provide “total care” to pediatric patients with scoliosis. By total, we mean comprehensive care, which ranges from non-surgical therapies to surgery and individualized support. We combine skill and experience to restore our young patients to normal and have them enjoy an active and happy childhood.
After so many years of consistently providing great medical care to the communities we serve, we have recently welcomed 2 new surgeons to our team.
To schedule a consultation with us, call our office today at (954) 735-3535 or use our convenient online request form.
