Unless the condition requires immediate surgical intervention after diagnosis, if the condition is still mild, it will simply be monitored with x-rays every four to six months. For more aggressive or advanced cases the established protocol is bracing. Bracing can be controversial and is used in an attempt to stop it developing further and to buy time. A potential dilemma in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is that spinal fusion, the established procedure employed by the NHS to halt and correct the curvature, is that it stops the fused part of the spine growing. For young adolescents who are still growing it potentially stunts their growth and the height they would have otherwise reached. In spite of the pain, not the type that a couple of paracetamol will alleviate, it is often preferable to delay spinal fusion.
For some, spinal fusion, unless a medical necessity, is not an operation they wish to undertake. As their spine stops growing they may decide to live with the condition, the potential pain and restrictions involved.
Listen to Stuart Tucker explain the conventional treatment options after diagnosis.
What patients and parents can take comfort from is that both Michael Grevitt and Stewart Tucker were in agreement with the treatment options. If treatment ultimately results in spinal fusion, no matter how graphic the operation may look, given current medical practice and technology, it has become low risk surgery.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by scoliosis visit Scoliosis Association UK or call their helpline on 0208 964 1166 for support and advice.
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