Patient and family information
Scoliosis guide
Plain-language information for patients and families on diagnosis, treatment options and what to expect from surgery.
Basics
What scoliosis is, how it is noticed and how it is monitored.
2 articles- What is scoliosis?Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine combined with rotation of the vertebrae. It is usually painless, and in most cases the cause is unknown.4 min read
- Diagnosis and check-upsExamination, a standing full-spine X-ray and an assessment of the growth remaining form the basis of every treatment decision.4 min read
Non-surgical treatment
Observation, scoliosis-specific exercise, sport and bracing.
2 articles- Observation, exercise and sportFor small curves, regular monitoring and scoliosis-specific exercises are the first option. Sport is allowed and encouraged.3 min read
- Brace treatmentA brace aims to stop a curve from progressing during growth. Success depends on wearing it for the recommended number of hours.5 min read
Surgery
Deciding on surgery, preparing for it and recovering.
2 articles- Deciding on surgery and preparing for itSurgery is recommended when a curve passes the surgical threshold or keeps progressing. Good preparation makes recovery easier.5 min read
- Recovery after surgeryGetting moving from the first days speeds up recovery. It is important to know the warning signs and to attend check-ups.4 min read
Special situations
Early-onset, neuromuscular, congenital and adult scoliosis.
4 articles- Early-onset scoliosisIn scoliosis that starts before the age of 10, the aim is to control the curve while allowing the spine and lungs to grow.4 min read
- Neuromuscular scoliosisIn scoliosis that accompanies muscle and nervous system conditions, sitting balance, breathing and ease of care come first.4 min read
- Congenital scoliosisIn scoliosis caused by vertebrae forming differently before birth, how the curve behaves depends on the type of difference.3 min read
- Adult scoliosisIn adults, scoliosis can show itself through back and leg pain and balance problems. Most treatment is non-surgical.4 min read
Questions
The questions asked most often in clinic, with short answers.
1 articleThese articles are for general information. An examination is needed for a treatment plan tailored to you.