Kids & Teens Back Surgery FAQs

Can scoliosis be treated without spinal surgery?

How your doctor administers scoliosis treatment will depend on your age, how mature your skeletal system is, and how large your curvature is. Most people with scoliosis live no differently than anyone else, which means they can play sports and be physically active. We have many scoliosis treatment options to try to prevent your curve from growing:

Monitoring: If you have a small curve in your spine, we usually recommend regular observation. Most small curves can be monitored without X-rays. If a curve begins to get larger, however, it may be necessary to take X-rays every four to six months.

Exercise: Although exercise will not make your curve better or worse, it does help to keep your muscles flexible. After you find out you have scoliosis, it is important to remain fully active by participating in your usual sports and activities.

Bracing: If you have a medium-sized curve and you are still growing, we may prescribe a brace for your back. We’ll explain how to wear it and answer any questions you may have about it. Like many kids with scoliosis, you might feel a little self-conscious about wearing a brace at first, but braces today are a lot more body conforming than they used to be, and there are ways you can disguise them. The main thing to remember is that it is important to wear the brace every day for the length of time we prescribe (12 to 16 hours daily) Most patients don’t have to wear it to school. This will help to keep the curve in your back from getting bigger. If wearing a brace concerns you, it may help to talk to your parents or caregiver to look for ways to help manage your feelings. We can also give you names and phone numbers of other kids who have been helped by wearing a brace, which can be of help.