“Frequently Asked Questions about Scoliosis”
“From the list below choose one of our frequently asked scoliosis topics, then select an FAQ to read. If you have a question which is not in this section, please contact us.”
Traditional Scoliosis Treatment for scoliosis under 25° is WATCH & WAIT. However, in growing children and adolescents, mild scoliosis can worsen quite rapidly (10° or more in a few months). What do all large spinal curvatures have in common? They all start out as small curves, the true cost of delaying scoliosis treatment isn’t calculated in dollars and cents. Over 20 thousands scoliosis fusion surgeries are performed every year in United States at a cost that shouldn’t be calculated in terms of money. Multiple studies have shown rigid braces do not reduce the need for highly invasive scoliosis surgery. And in some studies suggests that SpineCore soft brace is even less effective than rigid brace. Early Stage Scoliosis Intervention may be your only opportunity to avoid invasive treatment options in the future. To stop it before it gets started, you cannot afford to WATCH & WAIT as the curvature gets worse. The Early Stage Scoliosis Intervention program has been specifically designed to replace the old model of observation only.
We find that the sooner a scoliosis can begin correction, the better the results will be. It is never too late to start and it is never too early. Medical standards of care dictate “observation only” until a curve reaches 20-25 degrees. At 25 degrees, some form of bracing is typically recommended. If you have reached or are nearing a 40-50 degree curve, it is likely that surgery has been discussed with you and/or recommended.
For a long time, doctors told patients that their scoliosis would not progress after the age of 18. Unfortunately, further research has proven otherwise. Whether scoliosis develops earlier in life or in adulthood, it will most likely progress. As the curve worsens, the physical deformation, pain, and stress to the lungs and heart will also progress.
We at Queens Scoliosis Center have helped scoliosis curves as large as 103 degrees.
Absolutely! Some of our best patients are seniors. Not only do their posture and curves improve, but also their quality of life, allowing them to really enjoy their golden years.
The severity of scoliosis is understood by measuring the amount of abnormal curve in the spine. The technique used to capture this measurement is referred to as the Cobb Angle Measurement. This measurement is achieved when lines are drawn across particular areas of the X-ray to evaluate the curves in the spine. On the scoliosis X-ray, the first and last vertebrae involved in the curve are identified. A line is drawn across the top (superior) plate of the first vertebra involved in the curve and a second line is drawn across the bottom (inferior) plate of the last vertebra in the curve. The angle between the two lines is measured, and it is this reading that is referred to as the Cobb Angle Measurement.
No. There’s lot of controversy about whether or not bracing works. Controversy over the effectiveness of bracing is somewhat misleading. You will be hard pressed to find a doctor claiming that bracing will reduce or correct scoliosis. Rather, the debate is over whether or not wearing a brace will prevent the scoliosis from getting worse. When doctors state that bracing “works,” what they’re really saying is that it stabilizes the scoliosis, keeping it in its current position. Most doctors will insist that bracing does “work” with proper compliance. Recommended compliance is twenty-three hours per day, every day. In a study published in the American Journal of Orthopedics, 60% of the patients surveyed felt that bracing had handicapped their life, and 14% felt it had left a psychological scar. It is the opinion of Queens Scoliosis Center, that the drawbacks of bracing far outweigh the benefits, especially when more proactive choices are available.
Scoliosis is detrimental to the body because of the stress it places on the central nerve system, heart and lungs. Research has shown that the function of the heart and lungs is unchanged after spinal implantation surgery. Furthermore, the long-term effects of procedure can actually be worse the effects of living with an untreated scoliosis. Spinal motion is essential for proper functioning of the spine and central nerve system, and surgery reduces spinal ranges of motion, even in un-fused areas. Additionally, many patients seek surgery for the physical deformations of a “curved back” or “rib hump”, and spinal surgery will generally not correct either of these.
Will I be able to maintain the correction I have achieved after treating at Queens Scoliosis Center?
Dr. Nektalov designs a specific and individualized home rehab program for every patient, based on their individual scoliosis configuration and needs. He insists that patients commit to doing their home exercises, which have not only helped patients maintain their gains, but will often continue to improve their posture.
Treatment duration will depend on the location and severity of the Scoliosis.
Many patients do have success in obtaining some insurance reimbursements. Contact your insurance company for the specifics of your coverage.
At Queens Scoliosis Center we take five precise, small X-rays to evaluate the biomechanical integrity of the spine. One full spine X-ray exposes the patient to approximately the same amount of radiation as these five precision X-rays. A full spine X-ray requires a much stronger beam, and therefore produces greater tissue damage in comparison to a “spot” view of only one area of the spine. With the information gained from these films, doctor is able to apply specific, corrective adjustments, as well as to prescribe exercises, rehabilitation and weighting protocols. The end result of this treatment is a measurable reduction in the severity of the patient’s scoliosis.
A visit to a typical chiropractor might last ten minutes, and range between $35 and $50. We provide treatment and therapy that is significantly labor and time intensive, one visit could be an hour, or longer. A great deal of time and attention is devoted to your case, even when you’re not in the office. Typically fees range from $100 to $200 per visit, not including exam, equipment and X-rays. Contact our clinic for more information at 347-829-6322.
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