Find Treatment for Your Child’s Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a relatively common condition that causes the spine to have an abnormal curvature.
For many kids, the abnormal curvature is slight and causes no symptoms. For more severe cases, it can cause changes in posture as they grow.
If you suspect your child has scoliosis in the Bay Area, Dignity Health can provide the orthopedic care you need with the humankindness you deserve. Use our online Find a Doctor tool and make an appointment today.
Scoliosis Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of scoliosis become more apparent as children grow and can include:
- One hip sitting higher than the other
- One shoulder blade sticking out farther than the other
- Ribs sticking out farther on one side
- Uneven shoulders
What Causes Scoliosis?
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of scoliosis, accounting for 80 to 85 percent of cases. Doctors don’t know the exact cause of it. However, they do know it tends to run in families and can’t be prevented.
Other forms of scoliosis include neuromuscular scoliosis caused by conditions such as muscular dystrophy, and congenital scoliosis, which is due to a birth defect.
Trusted Scoliosis Treatment at Dignity Health
We offer treatment options based on the size of your child’s curvature and whether or not growth is complete. Small curves may not require treatment. For more prominent curves, your Dignity Health doctor may recommend back bracing. A back brace will not straighten the spine, but it can prevent the curve from getting worse.
If your child’s curve is 45 to 50 degrees or greater, or if it continues to increase despite bracing, your doctor may recommend spinal fusion surgery. Surgery can help prevent complications, such as changes in lung function.
To talk to a Dignity Health spine expert in the Bay Area about your treatment options, call (415) 353-6400 and request a doctor referral today.
Dignity Health provides complete treatment and diagnostic care for scoliosis in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Redwood City.