Treatments for Scoliosis

by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD

The treatment and management of scoliosis involves bracing or surgery. Scoliosis is monitored regularly and carefully to evaluate progression of the curvature. Treatment is usually reserved for curvatures greater than 20 degrees. Surgery is usually recommended for curvatures greater than 50 degrees.

The goals of treatment for scoliosis include:

Good cosmetic outcome
Avoidance of complications in adulthood, such as lung disease due to restriction in deformed chest cavity

Treatment involves the following:

Surgery
Other treatments - Braces

At this time, there are no medications for the treatment of scoliosis.

REFERENCES:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Campbell�s Operative Orthopaedics, 10th ed. Mosby; 2003.

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Scoliosis Research Society

Last reviewed October 2005 by Robert E. Leach, MD

All EBSCO Publishing consumer health and medical information found on this site is accredited by URAC. URAC's Health Web Site Accreditation Program requires compliance with 53 rigorous standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audits.

Previous | Next

�