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1. Treatment of
scoliosis is based on the severity of the curve? and of the type of scoliosis [functional, neuromuscular,idiopathic]??
2. There are three main categories of treatment:
i. observation [wait and see]
ii. the only thing that slows scoliosis down is a brace [If the curve is between 25-40 degrees and you are still growing [age is 15 i.e. growing age], a brace is/may be recommended. and
iii. surgery. [ If the curve is greater than 40 degrees, then surgery is/may be recommended].
Thus routine
X ray and measurements to check for progression and any worsening of the curve is recommended. Regular check up and follow up with your orthopedic surgeon will help.
PS
i. braces are not designed to correct the curve, but are used to help slow or stop the curve from getting worse, some are worn all through the day, while other can be worn only at night, talk with your doctor who after examining the spine will advise the best option which
fits your girl's curve.
ii. Occasionally scoliosis is associated with
back pain [LBA], as such the symptoms can be minimized with
physical therapy,
massage and
yoga, again they are not cure for scoliosis but strengthen the muscles of the back.
iii. surgery:The amount of risk depends on age, the degree of curve, the cause of the curve, and the amount of correction attempted.
iv. There are two reasons to treat scoliosis.
.Cosmetic purposes.
.Functional reasons since it can affect lung capacity and breathing, or increase risk for back pain.