In this episode we review scoliosis, a common pediatric skeletal abnormality that results in a lateral curvature of the spine. We review the types of scoliosis, causes and focus our discussion on the most common type- adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. We also discuss how scoliosis is diagnosed, what degree of spinal curvatures we worry about, and how we predict whether the scoliosis will worsen over time. We review which people may benefit from treatment with bracing or even surgery. 

Supplemental information:

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Scoliosis - HealthyChildren.org

Risser Model for Predicting the Prognosis of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) at Skeletal Maturity | University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital

We we would like to thank Dr. Rolando Roberto, Pediatric spine surgeon at UC Davis Children’s Hospital for reviewing todays episode, although Dr. Lena and Dr. Dean take full responsibility for any errors or misinformation