Scoliosis Specialists

On September 16, 1998, at an orthopedics symposium in New York City, Dr. Christine Coillard and Dr. Charles Rivard, pediatric surgeons from Sainte-Justine Hospital in Montreal, presented clinical findings on a promising, new, therapeutic approach for idiopathic scoliosis. Drs. Coillard and Rivard had long concurred that bracing was the most conservative option available for children with minor scoliosis. However, they also realized the challenges presented by a child’s growth patterns as well as his or her physical and psychological need for normal mobility. Their studies were based upon these challenges, and as a result of their research, the SpineCor bracing system evolved. Together with their team of researchers from anthropology, biomechanics, and physiotherapy they seek to minimize the three dimensional deformity of scoliosis by addressing what they believe to be four important aspects of the condition, deformation of the spine, postural disorganization, muscle dysfunction, and unsynchronized growth.

The benefits of the SpineCor brace are that it allows patients four hours per day out of brace, and provides total freedom of movement. The brace is more easily concealed under clothing, is more comfortable and cooler to wear, and is less restrictive. SpineCor has no side effects from muscle atrophy which may be caused by rigid bracing, and excellent treatment results, particularly when treatment is started early.

A 30-SECOND ANNUAL POSTURAL SCREENING BETWEEN THE AGES OF 10 AND 15 CAN MAKE A LIFETIME OF DIFFERENCE:

Normal (fig. 1)

• head centred over mid-buttocks

• shoulders level

• shoulder blades level, with equal prominence

• hips level and symmetrical

• equal distance between arms and body

Possible Scoliosis (fig. 2)

• head alignment to one side of mid buttocks

• one shoulder higher

• one shoulder blade higher with possible prominence

• one hip more prominent than the other

• unequal distance between arms and body

Normal (fig. 3)

• both sides of upper and lower back symmetrical
• hips level and symmetrical

Possible Scoliosis (fig. 4)

• one side of rib cage and/or the lower back showing uneven symmetry

Normal (fig. 5)

• even and symmetrical on both sides of the upper and lower back

Possible Scoliosis (fig. 6)

• unequal symmetry of the upper back, lower back or both

When the deformity is minimal, treatment is not normally indicated, medical observation is sufficient.

However, if the deformity progresses and becomes severe enough, there are two types of treatment possible :

• Brace (non-surgical)
• Surgery