Scoliosis specialists provide care for people with scoliosis, a progressive curvature of the spine that often develops in childhood. They evaluate patients, order medical imaging studies, and discuss treatment options. Conservative treatment, such as a scoliosis brace and exercises, is usually recommended first, but surgery may be necessary for severe cases. Referrals to other health professionals and medical centers may also be provided.
Scoliosis specialists are healthcare professionals who focus on providing care for people with scoliosis. People in a range of aspects of the healthcare community, including spinal surgeons, chiropractors, and nurse practitioners, can provide scoliosis treatment. Scoliosis patients often benefit from seeing a specialist because it gives them an opportunity to be evaluated by someone who is familiar with the latest research, procedures and standards in scoliosis care and this can improve patient outcomes.
People with scoliosis experience a progressive curvature of the spine. The spinal curves associated with scoliosis often develop in childhood and will become more severe over time if the patient is not provided with treatment. There are numerous causes for scoliosis, but the majority of cases are idiopathic scoliosis, meaning there is no clear or known cause. The earlier surgery is provided to a scoliosis patient, the greater the potential for a successful outcome. Children are usually screened for spinal curves on a regular basis so scoliosis can be diagnosed early.
A scoliosis specialist can evaluate a patient with scoliosis and discuss treatment options. Scoliosis specialists may order medical imaging studies to determine the degree or curvature of the spine and to learn more about the specifics of your case. This information is combined with a physical exam. With this information in hand, the scoliosis specialist can talk to the patient about available treatments.
Scoliosis specialists often recommend starting with conservative treatment. This usually includes a scoliosis brace designed to address the curvature, along with exercises to strengthen your spine. The curve cannot be reversed, but it is possible to encourage the spine to stop curving. If the curvature has become severe, scoliosis specialists can offer more invasive treatments such as surgery. Scoliosis surgery is performed by a spinal surgeon who is experienced in the care and treatment of scoliosis.
Some scoliosis specialists provide referrals to other health professionals who can work out a comprehensive program for treatment. Patients can also take advantage of medical centers and clinics that focus on spine care and have large staffs that can provide a variety of services, from spinal surgery to massage. People who need to see scoliosis specialists may want to leverage review and evaluation services to provide care providers who will deliver a high standard of care. Such services offer patients the opportunity to learn about their options before committing to a course of treatment with a particular scoliosis specialist.
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