From the Guidelines
Orthopedic specialists, particularly those with expertise in spine disorders, are the primary physicians who treat scoliosis. These specialists diagnose and manage the condition through various approaches depending on the severity of the spinal curvature. According to the most recent and highest quality study available, 1, the treatment of scoliosis is based on the severity of the curve, with mild cases (curves less than 25 degrees) typically being monitored with regular radiographs every 4-6 months during growth periods.
For moderate curves (25-40 degrees) or progressive curves in growing children, bracing may be prescribed, with the Boston brace being the most common type, typically worn 16-23 hours daily until skeletal maturity, as recommended by 1. Severe scoliosis (curves exceeding 45-50 degrees) may require surgical intervention, usually involving spinal fusion with rods and screws to straighten and stabilize the spine.
Some key points to consider in the treatment of scoliosis include:
- The importance of early detection through school screenings and pediatric check-ups, as treatment is most effective when started before significant progression occurs, as noted in 1.
- The use of radiography as the primary imaging modality for diagnosing and classifying scoliosis, evaluating severity, monitoring progression, and characterizing response to treatment, as discussed in 1.
- The role of physical therapy in complementing these treatments by improving posture and reducing pain, though it cannot correct the curve itself, as mentioned in the example answers.
- The need for a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, involving orthopedic specialists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals, as implied by the various studies cited, including 1, 1, and 1.
Overall, the treatment of scoliosis requires a comprehensive and individualized approach, taking into account the severity of the curve, the patient's age and skeletal maturity, and other factors, with the goal of improving morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes.
From the Research
Medical Specialty for Scoliosis Treatment
- The medical specialty that treats scoliosis is primarily orthopedic surgery, as evident from the studies 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Orthopedic surgeons are the main specialists involved in the treatment of scoliosis, including surgical interventions and management of the condition.
- However, some studies suggest that other specialists, such as physical and rehabilitation medicine specialists, should also be involved in the treatment team to provide conservative treatment options 6.
Subspecialties Involved
- Pediatric orthopedic surgeons are specifically involved in the treatment of pediatric scoliosis, as seen in studies 2, 4.
- The treatment of scoliosis may also involve other subspecialties, such as neurosurgery, in complex cases or when spinal instrumentation is required.
Treatment Approaches
- Surgical treatment options for scoliosis include posterior corrective surgeries, growth-sparing techniques, and anterior surgery, as discussed in studies 4, 5.
- Conservative treatment options, such as exercises and bracing, are also available, but may not be as widely used as surgical interventions, as noted in study 6.