When should I start scoliosis treatment?

At Rhino Scoliosis Center, we find that the earlier you begin treatment for your scoliosis, the better the results will be.  Medical standards of care dictate “observation only” until a curve reaches 25 degrees. The Rhino philosophy supports proactive treatment as soon as a scoliosis is discovered, instead of passively waiting for it to worsen.

Can Rhino Scoliosis Treatment help people with severe scoliosis?

We at Rhino Scoliosis Center have helped scoliosis curves as large as 143 degrees.

Can Rhino Scoliosis Treatment help people who are older?

Absolutely!  Some of our best patients are seniors.  Not only do their posture and curves improve, but also their quality of life, allowing them to really enjoy their golden years.

Will my scoliosis curve get worse?

Undoubtedly, yes, it will most likely progress.  Studies have shown that curves in adults can grow at a rate of 1-2 degrees a year.  Curves will frequently progress rapidly through puberty.  Recent research shows that there is a 68% chance of progression if a Cobb angle is 25 degrees or more at age 18, and only an 8% chance of progressing if the curve is less than 25 degrees.

Why doesn’t Rhino Scoliosis Center recommend bracing?

The hope of doctors who utilize bracing is that it will stabilize the scoliosis, keeping the scoliosis in its same position.  They claim that bracing will “work” with proper compliance, which is frequently 23 hours a day, everyday.  In a study published in the American Journal of Orthopedics, 60% of the patients surveyed felt that bracing had handicapped their life, and 76% of girls who wear a brace to school never get married.  It is the opinion of RSC, as well as other distinguished scoliosis centers throughout the world, that the drawbacks of  bracing far outweigh the benefits, especially when more proactive choices are available.

Why do you recommend avoiding the spinal rod implantation surgery?

Scoliosis is detrimental to the body because of the stress it places on the central nervous system, heart, and lungs.  Research has shown that the function of the heart and lungs is unchanged after spinal implantation surgery.  The long-term effects of this procedure can actually be worse than the effects of living with untreated scoliosis.  Surgery reduces the spinal motion necessary for proper functioning of the spine and nervous system.  Additionally, many patients seek surgery for the physical deformities of a “curved back” or “rib hump”, and spinal surgery will generally not correct either of these.  Further, avoiding the surgery allows you to avoid secondary infections pursuant to the surgery, body toxicity due to rod corrosion, and additional surgeries due to rod breakage and other factors.

Will I be able to maintain the correction I have achieved after treatment at Rhino Scoliosis Center?

Dr. Leavell designs a specific and individualized home rehab program for every patient, based on their individual scoliosis configuration and needs.  She insists that patients commit to doing their home exercises, which have not only helped patients maintain their gains, but will often continue to improve their posture and their spines.  Further, you are taught how to monitor your or your child’s posture for signs of worsening, so that immediate action can be taken.

How many times must I return for Rhino scoliosis treatment sessions?

Children need to be treated and monitored until 2 years past skeletal maturity, which is about the age of 18 for girls and 20 for boys.  Very rarely will there be a need for treatment more than every three months, but most will find themselves in the category of needing treatment sessions once every 6 months to a year.  If you are 12 with a severe curve, you may need anywhere from 6 to 24 rounds of treatment before you are 18.

What is my next step?

To discuss beginning a non-invasive Rhino Scoliosis Treatment Program, please contact Rhino Scoliosis Center today.  The sooner you get started, the better your prognosis.  Curves can grow rapidly, and smaller curves are simply easier to help.  Spaces are limited, so reserve yours as soon as you are convinced that this treatment option is the right one for you.  We look forward to helping you!

I just finished a Rhino Scoliosis Treatment Program.  What do I do now?

Congratulations!  Your life will never be the same, and your idea of what is “possible” has been enlarged.  Celebrate your accomplishments, but realize your journey has only just begun.  It will be your responsibility to complete your daily scoliosis rehab program, perform posture checks on yourself at intervals, and return for check-ups and further treatment when needed.  Your doctor will discuss what is best in your or your child’s case, based on the curve size, age, skeletal maturity, sports and activities participated in, reduction and improvements achieved in earlier Rhino Scoliosis Treatment Programs, and the amount of self-discipline and tenacity you or your child exhibits.  If you are diligent and follow the recommendations of your doctor, you give yourself the best chance of being in the overwhelming majority of patients who return for a check-up to discover they have stabilized, or even further reduced their curves.