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Medical Author:

Jason C. Eck, DO, MS

Jason C. Eck, DO, MS

Dr. Eck received a Bachelor of Science degree from the Catholic University of America in Biomedical Engineering, followed by a Master of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering from Marquette University. Following this he worked as a research engineer conducting spine biomechanics research. He then attended medical school at University of Health Sciences. He is board eligible in orthopaedic surgery.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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In this Article

• Scoliosis facts
• What is scoliosis?
• What causes scoliosis?
• What are the symptoms and signs of scoliosis?
• How is scoliosis diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for scoliosis?
• What is the prognosis for scoliosis?
• Is there a cure for scoliosis?
• Where can people get more information on scoliosis?
• Patient Comments: Scoliosis - Diagnosis
• Patient Comments: Scoliosis - Treatment
• Find a local Orthopedic Surgeon in your town
• Scoliosis Index

School screening programs have helped to identify many cases of scoliosis early. This allows people to be treated with either observation or bracing and avoid the need for surgery in many cases. Most people with scoliosis can live full, productive, and normal lives. People with scoliosis are able to become pregnant and have children with no increased risk for complications. They may be at increased risk for additional low back pain during pregnancy.

Newer advances in surgery have allowed for less invasive surgical methods that have less pain and shorter recovery periods. These techniques are still being developed, but the initial results are very promising.

At this time, there is no cure for scoliosis. There are good treatment options as discussed above. Researchers are trying to find the causes of the different types of scoliosis. This will hopefully lead to better treatments or a cure.

National Scoliosis Foundation
5 Cabot Place
Stoughton, MA 02072
781-341-6333
Fax: 781-341-8333
Email: Scoliosis@aol.com

This nonprofit voluntary organization provides pamphlets, a newsletter, and other informational material on childhood and adult scoliosis. The foundation also provides support-group information and lists of doctors in each state who specialize in scoliosis.

The Scoliosis Association, Inc.
PO Box 811705
Boca Raton, FL 33481-1705
800-800-0669
561-994-4435
Fax: 561-994-2455

This association publishes a quarterly newsletter and pamphlets. The association also provides information about local chapters and support groups.

The Scoliosis Research Society
6300 North River Road, Suite 727
Rosemont, IL 60018-4226
847-698-1627
Fax: 847-823-0536
Email: Goulding@aaos.org

The society is a professional organization for orthopedic surgeons interested in scoliosis. It provides pamphlets about the diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis. Price information for ordering pamphlets is available from the society. The society also can provide referrals to physicians.

American Physical Therapy Association
1111 North Fairfax St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
800-999-2782

To obtain a copy of the American Physical Therapy Association's brochure about scoliosis, you may send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to their address above.

REFERENCES:

Fu, K.M., J.S. Smith, D.W. Polly, C.P. Ames, et al; Scoliosis Research Society Morbidity and Mortality Committee. "Morbidity and Mortality Associated With Spinal Surgery in Children: A Review of the Scoliosis Research Society Morbidity and Mortality Database." J Neurosurg Pediatr 7.1 Jan. 2011: 37-41.

Negrini, S., S. Minozzi, J. Bettany-Saltikov, F. Zaina F, et al. "Braces for Idiopathic Scoliosis in Adolescents." Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 35.13 June 1, 2010: 1285-1293.

Phan, P., N. Mezghani, C.E. Aubin, J.A. De Guise, and H. Labelle. "Computer Algorithms and Applications Used to Assist the Evaluation and Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Review of Published Articles 2000-2009." Eur Spine J. Jan 30, 2011.