Scoliosis has frequently been treated successfully with specific AIS exercises to stretch muscles of the trunk, neck, hips and pelvis. Stretching alone will not change the curvature and stabilize the structure. Specific isolated strength exercises for the back, hip, neck and abdominal regions are an important part of the treatment plan. The use of seat belts for stabilization has been a great assistance.

Everyone's spine has a natural front-to-back curve -- that's what produces the normal rounding of the shoulders and the sway of the lower back. However, some people suffer from "Scoliosis" -- an abnormal curvature of the spine, especially one characterized by a rotational side-to-side deformity. In simple terms, what this means is that the spine is twisted side-to-side, often taking on an "S" shaped appearance and even resembling a corkscrew in some cases.

The most common form of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis, which basically means that the cause is unknown. Anyone can suffer from scoliosis; the condition usually begins in childhood, although too often it is not identified until the teenage years or later. Scoliosis tends to run in families, and it affects many more girls than boys.

Sometimes curvature of the spine is visible (the body tilts to the left or the right, or one shoulder blade is raised higher than the other. Some of the actual physical symptoms of scoliosis can include back pain, fatigue (especially postural fatigue -- feeling tired when standing, sitting, etc.), and in more severe cases, problems with circulation and breathing.

Doctors of chiropractic are trained to identify and manage problems relating to the spine and the back. An initial visit to the chiropractor will include a thorough physical and diagnostic examination (including range-of-motion tests and spinal x-rays) to identify any problems you may be having, including whether you or your children may be suffering from abnormal or dangerous curvature of the spine.

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Probably, we have had great success with scoliosis through our endoscopic techniques, and we don't require a fusion. We simply decompress the area that is impinging upon the nerve. We cannot straighten the spine, but we can relieve the pain associated with the curvature.

People of all ages can have scoliosis. Of every 1,000 children, three to five develop spinal curves that are considered large enough to need treatment. Adolescent scoliosis occurs after the age of 10 and is more common in girls. Scoliosis can run in families, so kids whose parents, brothers or sisters have scoliosis should be checked regularly by their family doctor.

Variblee rate springs defelct at different amounts per inch. An example would be: 200 lbs. = 1 inch deflection, 600 lbs. = 2 inch deflection, 1000 lbs. = 3 inch deflection, and so on. Varible coils have a soft initial spring rate and a much firmer spring rate to handle more weight, decrease sway, and improve handling.

Research indicates that only a small number of those with drinking problems will experience a progressive decline. An individual's drinking pattern frequently ebbs & flows over time. While "not drinking" may seem an unpleasant choice to someone who is currently a frequent and heavy drinker, research clearly indicates that even those labeled "alcoholic" have periods of normal drinking or even abstinence under the right conditions - if they so choose.

A bifocal lens only allows you to have two vision distances (near and far) while progressive lenses give you all your range of vision from distance, intermediate and near in a smooth progression. Most people like the newer technology of the progressive because it allows for more natural vision and cosmetically they look nicer because there is no line. The upside to standard lined bifocals is that the peripheral vision is sometimes better.

Between 4pm and 9pm, on the evening prior to surgery, a nurse from the Ambulatory Surgical Unit will call and let you know when you need to stop eating food and all liquids, and at what time to arrive at the hospital. Please remember to bring with you the questionnaire and the physical exam report filled out by your pediatrician, and the signed surgical consent form to the hospital. On the day of surgery, report to the security desk on the first floor of Children's Hospital.

Pain medication is administered through a special pump. When your child has pain, he or she will be able to give him or herself medication to relieve the pain.

Many children have mild spinal curves that do not need treatment. Children who do need treatment may be sent to an orthopedic spine specialist. The doctor may recommend observation, bracing or surgery. Treatment choices are based on your age, how much more you're likely to grow, the degree and pattern of the spinal curve, and the type of scoliosis you have.

Yes. In the initial phases of the secondary-progressive form of MS, when patients are still having exacerbations, the combination of immunomodulating and immunosuppressive agents can be helpful. No specific treatment has proven effective in the late stages of secondary-progressive MS, however, Lahey is currently participating in a trial.