While there are guidelines for mild, moderate and severe curves, the decision to begin treatment is always made on an individual basis. There are two kinds of curves called a c curve and an s curve. Depending on what kind of scoliosis and severity, there are different treatments.
Mild scoliosis is watched closely and kept in check with adjustments. As long as it is kept monitored, doctors can try to prevent the curve from worsening.
If your child’s bones are still growing and he or she has moderate scoliosis, your doctor may recommend a brace. Wearing a brace won’t cure scoliosis or reverse the curve, but it usually prevents further progression of the curve. Most braces are worn day and night. A brace’s effectiveness increases with the number of hours a day it’s worn. Children who wear braces can usually participate in most activities and have few restrictions. If necessary, kids can take off the brace to participate in sports or other physical activities.
Severe scoliosis typically progresses with time, so your doctor might suggest scoliosis surgery to reduce the severity of the spinal curve and to prevent it from getting worse. If the scoliosis is progressing rapidly at a young age, surgeons can install a rod that can adjust in length as the child grows. This growing rod is attached to the top and bottom sections of the spinal curvature, and is usually lengthened every six months.
