New York Spine Institute Spine Services

Idiophatic Scoliosis

Animated image showing human spine

IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS TREATMENT IN NYC & LONG ISLAND

Out of the many types of scoliosis, the most common form is idiopathic scoliosis, which means its precise cause of the spinal curvature is unknown. Typically it occurs in children from 10 years old throughout their adolescence and may go unnoticed to family members or the patient themselves until a school scoliosis exam.*

Scoliosis causes the bones in the spine to twist and curve, forming a “C” or “S” shape in most cases. Depending on the severity of the curve and any pain associated with it, treatments can vary from bracing to surgery. One of our specialists will conduct a full exam and come up with the best plan of care.*

Our board-certified Spinal Specialists can help you understand, diagnose and treat your Idiopathic Scoliosis. New York Spine Institute has locations throughout Greater New York City to help our patients receive the care they need.*

Call Our Experts Now     Schedule Your Appointment

Why Choose NYSI

QUALITY CARE

Here are NYSI our patients care is our top priority. We treat each patient with respect and compassion, fully explaining each step of our treatment process in order to keep a line of trust and understanding between the patient and physician.*

INDUSTRY LEADERS

Your care and treatment will be handled by top physicians and specialists here at NYSI. Our team of renowned medical professionals is led by medical director Alexandre B. de Moura, M.D. FAAOS. We are built on years of success and continue to reach new goals each and every day.*

MULTIPLE LANGUAGES

To further help our patients here at NYSI our staff members are fluent in multiple languages, including: Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German and Russian. We do everything we can to make our medical services available to everyone regardless of their background.*

Alexandre B. De Moura, M.D. FAAOS DIRECTOR, NEW YORK SPINE INSTITUTE, DIRECTOR, DEPT. ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY, MERCY MEDICAL CENTER

 

 

 

Understanding The Causes Of  Your Idiopathic Scoliosis

The main cause behind idiopathic scoliosis is still unknown, though doctors have ruled out certain potential causes like poor posture. Some research shows that family history may help determine whether or not one might have the condition. Most cases develop in a child’s early years of development and can worsen over time as their bodies develop.*

Timothy T. Roberts, M.D., ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SPECIALIST

Diagnosing Your Idiopathic Scoliosis

As with other forms of scoliosis, idiopathic scoliosis may be first revealed with a forward bend test, where a spinal deformity will likely be noticed if present. If certain symptoms or signs are apparent it may be recommended that your child receive a physical exam and further x-rays and testing to determine the severity of their idiopathic scoliosis.*

Patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis may experience some of the following symptoms*:

  • Tilted or uneven shoulders, with one sticking further out than the other
  • Uneven waistline
  • One hip higher than the other
  • Trouble standing upright

Your child’s medical and family history will be taken into account when diagnosing their idiopathic scoliosis as well, and your physicians will determine what course of treatment will fit best for their case.*

Angel Macagno, M.D. FAAOS, ORTHOPEDIC SPINE SPECIALIST

Treatment Options For Your Idiophatic Scoliosis

Depending on your child’s condition, your doctor may recommend a nonsurgical route to help correct the curve, for cases that are developing rapidly or cause severe pain, surgery may be the best option for optimal recovery.*

Over time a deformity can worsen, and these factors will be considered in your child’s treatment plan*:

Your child’s age
Location and severity of the curve
Number of Growing Years (the amount of years your child’s spine will grow)

Luckily, most patients have small curves of 10-20 degrees and wouldn’t require surgical methods. For those who fall under this category, it is likely that your child’s physician will monitor their growth and determine whether or not the curve is worsening with age. There are some helpful steps patients can take in order to manage their symptoms, including physical therapy, bracing or chiropractic adjustments.* 

If the curve reaches 45-50 degrees and needs to be corrected then your child’s physician may suggest surgical treatment. Our doctors here at NYSI will work closely with you and your family to make sure your child receives top care and a personalized surgical plan. When it is decided that your child will undergo spinal surgery, we will recommend:*

Spinal Fusion: which will help straighten the curve by fusing together vertebrae, allowing them to heal as a solid bone. We will realign spinal bones throughout the curve, inserting metal rods in some instances to assist in placement until fusion occurs.*

One of our expert doctors will assist you and your family from the initial exam up until recovery, keeping your child’s wellbeing at the top of our priority list.*

*The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment will vary by patient and condition. New York Spine Institute does not guarantee certain results.

Need a Consultation For Your Idiophatic Scoliosis?

Schedule Your Appointment