Mehta Casting
Shriners Children's orthopedic surgeons specialize in the application of Mehta casts – an option to treat the curvature of the spine in children diagnosed with infantile scoliosis.
Scoliosis Specific Exercises
We create a different care plan every time we treat a child with scoliosis.
Our physicians and rehabilitation specialists are known all over the world for using the most innovative methods to care for children with scoliosis. They understand how different children respond to different treatments.
If your child has idiopathic scoliosis, their care team might suggest working with a physical therapist to perform customized scoliosis specific exercises – exercises designed to help straighten their spine.
We'll work out all the details once your child is ready for treatment, and make sure you and your family understand how long you can expect to participate in the program. In addition to spending time with a physical therapist every week, your child will have a set of exercises they'll need to perform at home to keep their scoliosis in check.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
Learn About Scoliosis Specific Exercises
Customized for each child, scoliosis specific exercises offer an effective, non-surgical option for treating scoliosis. Known as the "Schroth Method," this approach uses physical therapy to help bring a curved spine into a straighter, more natural position. Read about the areas your child will focus on during scoliosis specific exercises below:
Muscular Symmetry
In most children, scoliosis affects the back muscles. Usually, one side of the back has weak, unused muscles while the other has over-worked muscles. We'll help balance your child's muscle strength through exercises designed to treat both problems.
Rotational Angular Breathing
During scoliosis specific exercises, children focus on breathing into the bent side of the body using a technique called rotational angular breathing. This method helps rotate the spine, reshaping the rib cage and surrounding soft tissue.
Posture Awareness
Just being aware of how their spines are positioned can help those with scoliosis focus on correcting their posture. So, our physical therapists teach techniques designed to help your child do just that.
Expected Results
Scoliosis specific exercises are known for delivering results – no matter how severely a patient's spine is curved. In fact, after completing their customized treatment plans, most patients actually see a difference in their scoliosis.
Aside from correcting the position of the spine, scoliosis based exercises can:
- Improve posture
- Increase core strength
- Make breathing easier
- Reduce pain
- Improve mobility
- Better align the pelvis
The spine care I received at Shriners Children’s changed the entire outcome of my life. Now, I'm able to live a full life without limitations!
Locations with Scoliosis Specific Exercise Services
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Shriners Children's provides specialty health care to children around the world. We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, services and support to improve the quality of our patients’ lives and help them reach their full potential.
Physical Therapy
From orthopedic conditions to spinal cord injuries, physical therapy at Shriners Children's is used to help patients dealing with different conditions find relief from pain, gain strength and return to activities they love. If your child would benefit from physical therapy, you can trust our care team will create a plan designed to meet their unique needs, wants, goals and challenges.
Other Scoliosis Treatments
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Bracing
Shriners Children's multidisciplinary team includes orthotists who create braces to meet the individual need of each child – whether to treat a complex condition or common injury.
Halo Traction
Shriners Children's skilled physicians use halo traction as a first step in correcting severe scoliosis, kyphosis and other spine deformities. The treatment carefully pulls a child's head and spine upward, applying a slow stretch.
Growing Rods
Shriners Children's provides growing rods for children who have not reached skeletal maturity. They are placed along the spine to correct a spinal curve and allow continued growth of the spine.
MAGEC System
Shriners Children’s pioneered the use of the MAGEC System for treating early onset scoliosis. This magnetic rod-lengthening treatment gently guides the growth of the spine, without repeated surgeries.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery stabilizes and corrects the curvature of the spine; and for scoliosis and kyphosis, prevents further curvature of the spine. Stabilizing the spine can improve movement, reduce pain and restore lung function.
Next Steps
Request an Appointment
Families and caregivers seeking treatment should start by contacting us for an appointment.
Log in to the Patient Portal
Parents and guardians of existing patients can email, request records, schedule appointments and more.
Refer a Patient
Physicians and healthcare providers can request appointments, start transfers or contact us with questions.