Most scoliosis surgeons agree that children who have very severe curves (45-50° and higher) will need surgery to lessen the curve and prevent it from getting worse. The operation for scoliosis is a spinal fusion.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
There are three proven treatments for scoliosis — observation, bracing, and surgery. Your doctor will recommend one of these treatments based on the severity of the scoliosis and the physical maturity of your child.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) is a type of scoliosis that can occur in children who have medical conditions that impair their ability to control the muscles that support the spine. A few of the more common conditions associated with NMS include muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of rare diseases that cause muscles to weaken and deteriorate. MD affects the voluntary muscles that control movement in the arms, legs, and trunk. It also can affect involuntary muscles, such as the heart and respiratory muscles.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. There are several different types of scoliosis that affect children and adolescents. By far, the most common type is "idiopathic," which means the exact cause is not known.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Congenital scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that is caused by a defect that is present at birth. It is much less common than the type of scoliosis that begins in adolescence. Children with congenital scoliosis sometimes have other health issues, such as kidney or bladder problems.| orthoinfo.aaos.org
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a disorder that affects a child's ability to control his or her muscles. It is caused by damage or abnormalities in the parts of the brain that are involved with movement and coordination. In most cases, cerebral palsy begins before a baby is born.| orthoinfo.aaos.org