Tan Lin Chueen, Executive
Scoliosis Treatment Options
The treatment options depend on the type and severity of the curve. Non surgical treatment including physiotherapy and bracing are recommended for scoliosis with less than 40 degrees.
Scoliosis curve with less than 15-20 degrees will require physiotherapy to correct or stabilise the curve with exercises into the corrective posture, while manual therapy and strong massage will help to release joint stiffness and tight muscles that are contributed from the curve to assist in maintaining the corrective posture.
Scoliosis with larger curve from 20- 40 degrees will require the use of brace to correct or stabilize the curvature. There are different types of braces in the market but they are mainly classified into rigid and non rigid brace. The following is a comparison of the two types of braces.
| Rigid Brace | SpineCor Dynamic Corrective Brace |
Aim is to stop the progression of scoliosis.
| Aim is progressive curve reduction and neuro-muscular integration
|
Brace Effectiveness Factors
The effectiveness of the brace depends on a few factors mentioned below.
- Good flexibility
- Skeletally immature spine
- Small Cobb angle
- Slow progression
- Minimal vertebral deformity
- Good compliance
- Active child
For scoliosis curve more than 40 degrees, surgery may be recommended for the curve. Surgery will entail the use of special surgical implants such as rods, hooks, screws, and wires to straighten the spine and secure it in place (fusion). Apart from surgery, appropriate exercises are needed to strengthen the muscles to stabilise the corrected curve for long term effect. If not, it is likely for the curve to increase in the future.
