SCHEUERMANN’S KYPHOSIS

Anatomy of Kyphosis

To understand your symptoms and treatment choices, it helps to start with a basic understanding of the anatomy of the mid-back. 

Learn more about the anatomy of the thoracic spine

The normal spine has three natural curves. The cervical spine curves slightly inward, the thoracic slightly outward, and the lumbar slightly inward. This shape provides an even distribution of weight and helps the spine withstand all kinds of forces. Even though the lower portion of the spine holds most of the body’s weight, each segment relies upon the strength of the others to function properly.

The rounded shape of the spine is a normal kyphosis, a “C” curve, with the opening of the C in the front. If this curve is more than 40 to 45 degrees, doctors consider it abnormal or a spinal deformity. Also, sometimes this deformity is known as “round-back posture” or “hunchback.”  Kyphosis is defined as an excessive front-to-back spinal curvature that commonly gives the upper back a rounded appearance. While spinal fusion surgery can be used to correct kyphosis, it’s an invasive and risky procedure, and there are highly effective nonsurgical treatment options available.

Scheuermann’s disease, also referred to as Scheuermann’s kyphosis, is a condition predominantly identified in adolescent males, particularly those of Northern European descent. It differs significantly from simple postural kyphosis due to its structural nature. The key characteristic of this disease is the unusual, trapezoidal shape of some thoracic vertebrae, paired with abnormalities in the discs, which together promote a more permanent and severe form of kyphosis. When the curvature resulting from these abnormalities becomes intense, surgical intervention might become necessary to correct the deformity. This is distinct from other forms of kyphosis that might improve with non-surgical treatments.

Quick Identification

With Scheuermann’s kyphosis, the thoracic curve is usually 45 to 75 degrees. Patients will experience vertebral wedging greater than five degrees with three or more vertebrae in a row. The affected vertebrae display a triangular appearance. They wedge forward, which reduces the space between them. The thoracic spine angles forward into more kyphosis.

Other Abnormalities

There are typically other abnormalities in the affected vertebrae. Schmorl’s nodes are areas where the disc (cushion) between each affected vertebra pushes through the bone surface at the bottom and the top (endplates) of the vertebra. Schmorl’s nodes are projections of the spinal disc into the vertebrae, specifically through their endplates. This condition often occurs in individuals with Scheuermann’s disease. Essentially, the cushioning disc material between the vertebrae pushes through the vertebral bone at the top and bottom, creating these nodes.

Key Points:

• Location: Occur at the endplates of vertebrae.
• Causes: Typically found in conditions like Scheuermann’s disease.
• Effect: Disc material pushes into vertebral bones.

Understanding Schmorl’s nodes can help in identifying and treating various spinal issues, particularly those involving structural abnormalities.

Some spine specialists believe that the tightness of this ligament may cause spinal deformity. Ligaments are the structures that help connect bones to bones, including vertebrae. Patients with Scheuermann’s kyphosis commonly display a thickening in the ligament running along the front of the spine (the anterior longitudinal ligament). The thickened ligament may affect the growth of one or more vertebrae during childhood. This leads to more growth on the back of the vertebrae and less in the front, resulting in one or more wedged vertebrae.

Why Might Scheuermann’s Disease Be Mistaken For Poor Posture?

Scheuermann originally noticed this spinal deformity in agriculture workers who were frequently hunched or bent over. This, of course, led to the question of whether poor posture could lead to kyphosis. While this is a logical question, there is no confirmation of the connection between posture and this deformity in science. However, poor posture plays a vital role in making the problem worse.

Sometimes delays in diagnosis and treatment are caused by the mistaken belief that the deformity is due to poor posture. Such cases are known as postural kyphosis, a condition that involves weak muscles. People with Scheuermann’s disease have a skeletal deformity, however, and simply cannot straighten their spine.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. While improving posture can benefit overall spinal health, it is not a cure for Scheuermann’s disease. Proper medical evaluation and targeted interventions are necessary to address the underlying skeletal issues.

Is There a Genetic Predisposition to Scheuermann’s Kyphosis?

Yes, there appears to be a significant genetic predisposition to Scheuermann’s kyphosis. This condition often runs in families, suggesting that hereditary factors play a crucial role in its development.

Researchers have noted that the abnormalities in spine mechanics, which are characteristic of Scheuermann’s kyphosis, can be passed down through generations. Additionally, muscle abnormalities are also considered potential contributors to the condition, further hinting at a genetic link.

Key Points:

• Family History: If close relatives have Scheuermann’s kyphosis, you are at a higher risk of developing it.
• Genetic Factors: The way your spine is structured and functions may be influenced by inherited traits.
• Muscle Abnormalities: These may also be inherited, contributing to the likelihood of developing the condition.

In summary, if Scheuermann’s kyphosis is present in your family, it’s important to be aware of your increased risk due to genetic factors.

Causes of Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

The cause of Scheuermann’s kyphosis remains unknown, but there are many possible theories about its development. Scheuermann, a Danish radiologist, proposed that the problem started because the cartilage of the spinal bone’s ring died from a lack of blood supply. Additional theories postulate that a vertebral disorder during the rapid growth spurts of adolescence causes abnormal bone growth, producing wedging of the vertebrae, which eventually leads to problems of kyphosis. Many spine specialists also suspect that a problem with the mechanics of the spine (the way it is put together and functions) plays a part in Scheuermann’s kyphosis. Others suggest mild osteoporosis could contribute to the deformity. In addition, most researchers think that some damage to the growth area of the vertebrae starts the process.

Muscle abnormalities are considered one of the possible causes. And researchers report seeing a high genetic predisposition to this disease (runs in families). Scheuermann originally noticed this spinal deformity in agriculture workers who were frequently hunched or bent over. This of course led to the question of whether poor posture could lead to kyphosis. While this is a logical question, there is no confirmation of the connection between posture and this deformity in science. However, poor posture plays a vital role in making the problem worse. Therefore, correcting postural problems can sometimes help improve excessive kyphosis.

Scheuermann’s Kyphosis Symptoms

Symptoms of Scheuermann’s kyphosis generally develop around puberty, between the ages of 10 and 15. It’s hard to determine when the problem begins because X-rays don’t show the changes until the child turns 10 or 11. When parents notice the onset of poor posture or slouching, in their child, doctors can address the problem. The child might experience pain and fatigue in the mid-back. The pain rarely becomes disabling or severe at this point unless the deformity appears severe.

Generally, excessive kyphosis slowly develops. When it progresses to the point where the rounded curve becomes noticeable, a concerned parent or teacher will suggest a doctor’s visit. This is what leads most children to get medical help — not the presence of pain. By comparison, adults who get Scheuermann’s early in life tend to seek help. This is because the pain from the deformity becomes unbearable.

A rigid curve in the spine is common with Scheuermann’s kyphosis. The curve gets worse with bending over and only partially corrects when standing up straight. Pain typically increases with time and the severity of the deformity. About one-third of the patients with Scheuermann’s kyphosis also have scoliosis.

People who have Scheuermann’s kyphosis usually don’t have nerve problems from spinal deformity. However, a severely rounded spine can squeeze the contents of the chest and abdomen. The disorder may eventually put pressure on the heart, lungs, and abdomen. This can mean chest pain, shortness of breath, and a loss of appetite.

Key Information For Diagnosing Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

When diagnosing Scheuermann’s kyphosis, several key pieces of information are essential. Understanding your complete medical history is the first step. This often involves filling out a detailed form that asks about your condition, lifestyle, and any past injuries. The more thorough you are, the more accurate the diagnosis can be.

Important Aspects of Medical History:

• Onset of Symptoms: When did you first notice the curvature or pain in your spine?
• Possible Causes: Any incidents or injuries that might have contributed to your condition.
• Lifestyle Factors: Your activity levels and daily habits that might affect your spine.
• Family History: Whether any relatives have similar spinal issues.

Once your initial history is reviewed, your doctor will likely have additional questions to further clarify your condition.

Physical Examination

Next, a physical examination helps to rule out other causes of kyphosis and narrow down the diagnosis to Scheuermann’s disease. This examination focuses on:

• Physical Appearance: Checking for abnormal curvature or posture.
• Range of Motion: Assessing flexibility and movement in your spine.

Diagnostic Imaging

To confirm the diagnosis, an X-ray of your spine will be taken. Key indicators looked for in the X-ray include:

• Degree of Kyphosis: Measuring the curvature of the spine.
• Vertebral Wedging: Identifying if three or more adjacent vertebrae are wedged at least five degrees each.
• Schmorl’s Nodes: Detecting any small herniations of disc material in the endplates of the vertebrae.

By collecting and examining this information, your healthcare provider can accurately diagnose whether you have Scheuermann’s kyphosis or another spinal condition.

Understanding the Optimal Treatment for Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

When addressing Scheuermann’s kyphosis, it’s crucial to find a treatment strategy that carefully considers both the patient’s level of discomfort and the inherent risks associated with surgical procedures. Here’s a closer look at how to manage this condition:

• Assessment of Pain and Disability: The initial step is to evaluate how much the back pain affects the patient’s daily life. Not all cases require aggressive treatments.
• Considering Non-Surgical Options: For those whose condition includes manageable pain and less severe spinal curvature, our doctors often encourage non-surgical methods. This could include physical therapy, pain relief medications, and lifestyle adjustments.  Before opting for surgery, it’s crucial to consider alternative treatments thoroughly. Aligning treatment expectations with potential results is vital. Non-surgical methods not only help in pain management but also aim to avoid the costs, risks, and recovery time associated with invasive procedures.  While some patients may still choose surgical options, understanding the full spectrum of treatments available can lead to better, more personalized healthcare choices.
• When to Consider Surgery: Surgical intervention is typically reserved for severe cases. This includes scenarios where the spinal curvature exceeds 70 degrees or if the pain severely hampers the patient’s quality of life and ability to function effectively.
• Risk vs. Benefit Analysis: The decision to proceed with surgery takes into account the potential benefits against the possible risks. Surgery is generally recommended only when there is a clear advantage to be gained in terms of reduced pain and improved spinal alignment.

Each treatment plan should be tailored to the individual, considering both the physical aspects of the kyphosis and the patient’s circumstances. Consultation with a spine specialist is essential to make informed decisions about the best approach to treating Scheuermann’s kyphosis.

How Does Bracing Help Treat Scheuermann’s Kyphosis?

Bracing is a common non-surgical approach to managing Scheuermann’s kyphosis, especially in growing adolescents. The primary aim of a brace is to guide the growth of the vertebrae, promoting a straighter spine over time.

Treatment Goals and Mechanism

Guiding Bone Growth:

• The brace works by holding the spine in a more upright posture, thereby reducing the pressure on the front of the vertebrae.
• This decreased pressure allows the front part of the vertebrae to grow faster, helping the spine develop a more normal shape.

Growth Phases:

• This method is most effective in young patients who are still in their growth phases.
• Consistent use can lead to significant improvement in spinal curvature over a period of about two years.

Pain Relief:

• While bracing is primarily used to correct deformity, it can also provide pain relief by supporting the spine.

Effectiveness and Usage

• Suitability: Bracing is generally effective for adolescents with spinal curves under 75 degrees, as measured by X-ray.
• Consistency: Success heavily depends on how consistently the brace is worn. Regular usage increases the chances of achieving noticeable correction.
• Limitations: In older patients, bracing serves mainly to support the spine and relieve pain. It does not significantly alter the spinal curvature.

Utilizing a brace provides a non-invasive option to correct spinal deformities and manage pain effectively, making it a crucial tool in treating Scheuermann’s kyphosis.  If possible, doctors will treat abnormality without surgery. As such, they recommend bracing. Bracing will guide the growth of the vertebrae, and thus, help to straighten the spine. The brace will only successfully straighten the spine in individuals who continue to grow. The brace helps to hold the spine in a straighter and upright posture. This will take pressure off the front half of the vertebra, allowing the growth of the bone in the front to catch up with the growth in the back. A brace helps senior patients support the spine and relieve pain, but it will not improve the curve.

There are many braces available that keep the shoulders pulled back and the chin upright. Braces provide effective treatment for adolescents with curves of less than 75 degrees. If young people feel comfortable wearing the brace, they can limit the curve from getting worse. Sometimes a correction to the deformity occurs within two years. The brace allows remodeling and corrects the growth of the developing spine. Doctors recommend that patients wear the brace from 16 to 24 hours each day for one year, then just at night for two years.

Understanding the Use of the Milwaukee Brace in Treating Kyphosis

Kyphosis, characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, can be managed effectively using several methods, with the Milwaukee brace being one of the most common. The primary goal of this brace is to correct the spinal alignment during the growth phase of a patient’s life. Here’s how it works:

The Function and Design of the Milwaukee Brace

The Milwaukee brace is specifically designed to support the spine in a more upright and straight position. By doing so, it helps redistribute pressure across the spine. This redistribution is particularly focused on alleviating pressure from the front half of the vertebra, thus allowing the front of the bone to grow and align more closely with the back. This corrective mechanism is most effective in adolescents who are still experiencing significant growth.

Who Benefits from the Milwaukee Brace?

The efficacy of the Milwaukee brace is most pronounced in young patients with spinal curves less than 75 degrees as seen on X-rays. Consistency in wearing the brace as prescribed is crucial. Adolescents who adhere to the required regimen can expect to see improvement or correction of the spinal deformity over time.

Treatment Protocol

Typically, treatment involves wearing the brace for extensive periods—often 16 hours a day to full-time (around the clock)—for at least a year. Following this intensive phase, the patient might continue wearing the brace at night for an additional two years.

Additional Supportive Treatments

Along with bracing, physical therapy may be advised to enhance back strength and improve overall posture. However, for conditions like Scheuermann’s kyphosis, physical therapy alone seldom offers significant benefit without the support of bracing.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee brace represents a crucial tool in the management of kyphosis in young patients. Its design and application are aimed at guiding the growth of the spine towards a more normal curvature during the critical growing years.

Physical Therapy

The doctor may prescribe physical therapy. A well-rounded rehabilitation program assists in calming pain and inflammation, improving mobility and strength, and making daily activities easier. When people include physical therapy along with wearing a brace, they will see improvements.

It appears that exercise helps in changing the kyphotic curve in the mid-back. However, it can help when you combine it with bracing. Kyphosis treatments address the flexibility of the lower back and hamstring muscles, back strength and posture, and ways to exercise at home. People might require rechecks with the physical therapist once or twice each year during periods of growth.

The goals of physical therapy will help:

• learn correct posture and body movements to counteract the effects of kyphosis.
• maximize the range of motion and strength.
• foster aerobic fitness.
• learn ways to manage your condition.

Learn more about spinal rehabilitation

How Can Custom-Prescribed Home Exercises Aid in Kyphosis Treatment?

Custom-prescribed home exercises play a pivotal role in the treatment of kyphosis by strengthening and stabilizing the spine and surrounding muscles. These exercises are designed to target specific muscle groups that support the spinal column, promoting better posture and alignment.

Benefits of Home Exercises

Muscle Strengthening:

• Strengthening the core and back muscles helps in maintaining the spine’s natural curves.
• Strong muscles provide better support to the vertebral column, reducing abnormal spinal curvature.

Improved Flexibility:

• Stretching exercises enhance the flexibility of the spine.
• Flexibility reduces stiffness and discomfort associated with kyphosis, making daily activities easier.

Stabilization:

• Consistent exercise regimes help stabilize the spinal segments.
• Improved stability results in decreased likelihood of vertebral misalignment.

Types of Effective Exercises

Core Strengthening:

• Planks: Great for building core strength without putting excessive strain on the spine.
• Bird-Dog: Enhances stability and balance by working both the core and back muscles.

Back Extensions:

• Superman Pose: Simultaneously strengthens lower back and glute muscles.
• Cobra Stretch: Focuses on the upper back, extending and aligning the thoracic spine.

Postural Exercises:

• Wall Angels: Improve posture and shoulder flexibility.
• Shoulder Blade Squeezes: Activate the upper back muscles, promoting better posture.

Personalized Approach

Individualized exercise plans ensure that each routine addresses the patient’s specific needs and conditions. Tailored exercises can prevent overexertion and injury by focusing on the correct muscle groups. Health professionals, such as physical therapists, can adjust the intensity and type of exercises as the patient progresses.

Conclusion

Incorporating custom-prescribed home exercises into your kyphosis treatment plan can dramatically enhance spine health by strengthening, stabilizing, and increasing the flexibility of the muscles surrounding the spine. This holistic approach not only alleviates symptoms but also promotes long-term spinal health and proper alignment.

Potential Complications of Surgery for Scheuermann’s Kyphosis

When contemplating surgery for Scheuermann’s kyphosis, it’s crucial to be aware of potential complications. Any surgical procedure carries inherent risks, and surgeries involving the spine and spinal cord are particularly sensitive due to their complex nature.

Common Complications

• Pain and Impairment: Post-surgery pain is anticipated, but in some cases, it can become chronic or more severe, leading to long-term discomfort and functional limitations.
• Infection: Like all surgeries, there is the risk of infection at the site of the incision or deeper within the spinal area.
• Blood Clots: These can form in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and potentially travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), posing serious health risks.
• Nerve Damage: Surgeries near the spine can inadvertently damage nerves, possibly resulting in numbness, weakness, or even paralysis.

Serious Risks

• Spinal Fluid Leaks: Accidental punctures can cause cerebrospinal fluid leaks, leading to headaches and other complications.
• Failed Fusion or Hardware Issues: Surgical fusion of vertebrae may not heal correctly, or the surgical hardware used (such as screws and rods) might shift or break, necessitating further surgeries.

Individual Risk Assessment

It’s essential to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider about these risks. Your doctor can evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized information about the potential complications of the surgery. They can also offer guidance on how to mitigate these risks and what to expect during the recovery process.

Being fully informed about these potential complications can help you make a more educated decision about whether to proceed with surgery for Scheuermann’s kyphosis. Always rely on professional medical advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

When is Surgery Considered for Scheuermann’s Kyphosis?

Surgery for Scheuermann’s kyphosis is typically reserved for more severe cases. Specifically, it’s considered when the spinal curvature exceeds 75 degrees, as measured through X-rays. This threshold indicates a level of deformity that is unlikely to be effectively managed by non-surgical methods.

For curvatures under 75 degrees, non-invasive treatments like the use of braces are usually recommended. The Milwaukee brace is a common option and aims to halt the progression of the curvature and alleviate symptoms. Surgery may occasionally be performed for cosmetic reasons, but this is generally not advised. Given the serious nature of spinal surgery, the risks often outweigh the benefits when the goal is solely to improve appearance.

Key Points:

• Surgery is considered for curves over 75 degrees.
• Non-surgical methods, including braces, are preferred for less severe cases.
• Cosmetic surgery is rarely recommended due to the significant risks involved.

Scheuermann’s Kyphosis Surgery

Medical experts recommend surgery if X-rays show a kyphosis over 75 degrees. Use a brace or get medical observation to treat a curve less than 75 degrees. In many cases, doctors will perform surgery for certain cosmetic reasons. As Scheuermann’s Kyphosis surgery involves the spine, improving appearance does not justify the procedure.

Fusion surgery assists in correcting Scheuermann’s kyphosis. The operation has two parts. One operation is carried out on the front of the spine (anterior) and another one on the back (posterior). These two surgeries are carried out at a gap of one week. Many doctors are doing both operations on the same day.

The anterior operation is usually carried out to “release” tight ligaments along the front of the spine. Cutting these ligaments and removing the discs between the vertebrae increases flexibility in the spine. This helps in straightening the spine easily when rods are put in from the back of the spine. Next, the surgeon begins the posterior procedure by working from the back of the spine. This is where the actual correction of the spinal curve happens. Additionally, the rods are attached along the spine to align the spine and hold the spine in its correct position.

Types of Kyphosis Surgery

Most of the surgeries for correcting kyphosis involve a rigid spine. And, both anterior and posterior procedures are generally required. There are some cases of kyphosis that doctors can correct with the help of a posterior procedure alone. Some surgeons are performing posterior-only surgery for Scheuermann’s kyphosis regardless of the size of the curve.

For many patients, the posterior procedure will realign the spine. The doctor will advise which type of surgery will be used to produce the best results. The use of a surgical approach will depend upon the patient’s age, spine flexibility, the location and degree of the curve, and whether pressure affects the nerve roots.

Post-Surgical Recovery

Post-surgery, recovery may involve:

• A stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor the initial recovery.
• Use of a back brace to support the spine during the healing process.
• Follow-up physical therapy to restore mobility and strengthen the back muscles.

It is essential for patients to closely follow their doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best outcome from whichever treatment path is chosen.

While each case is different and will depend on important variables such as patient age, health and fitness, condition severity, and whether or not any complications occurred, in general, people can expect a week-long recovery stay in the hospital and to return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. This timeline can vary, but having these benchmarks can help set realistic recovery expectations.

What are the Long Term Effects of Living With a Fused Spine

Living with a fused spine can bring about varied long-term effects, which are often underlined by individual experiences and medical histories.

Increased Post-Surgical Pain

Many patients report heightened pain levels following the initial recovery period. This post-surgical discomfort can persist and sometimes even intensify over the years, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.

Research Gaps

One significant concern is the lack of comprehensive research on the long-term consequences of spinal fusion. While short-term studies highlight immediate and mid-term outcomes, there’s a considerable gap in understanding what life is like 10, 20, or even 30 years post-surgery.

Mobility and Flexibility

A fused spine inherently means reduced mobility in the affected area. Patients often experience stiffness and a limited range of motion, which can complicate tasks requiring bending or twisting.

Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD)

Adjacent Segment Disease refers to the degeneration of spinal segments next to the fusion site. Over time, these non-fused segments can wear out, leading to additional pain and potentially requiring further medical intervention.

Chronic Pain

For some, chronic pain becomes a part of daily life. This constant discomfort can stem from various factors such as nerve damage, muscle imbalances, or the stress placed on non-fused parts of the spine.

Altered Biomechanics

The body’s biomechanics can change significantly after spinal fusion. The remaining discs and vertebrae may bear added stress, leading to conditions like arthritis or other degenerative diseases.

Summary

While spinal fusion can stabilize certain conditions and provide immediate relief, the long-term effects may include increased pain, reduced mobility, and potential complications in adjacent spinal segments. The lack of extensive long-term studies further emphasizes the need for more research to fully understand these outcomes.

The Psychological Impact of Scheuermann’s Disease on Young People

Scheuermann’s disease, beyond its physical symptoms, imposes notable psychological burdens on young individuals. This condition often manifests during adolescence, a particularly vulnerable period for self-esteem and social confidence.

Self-Consciousness and Self-Esteem

The visible spinal deformities associated with Scheuermann’s disease can make adolescents feel self-conscious about their appearance. Young people are frequently concerned about their body image, and the curvature of the spine can exacerbate these insecurities. This can lead to diminished self-esteem, and heightening feelings of embarrassment or shame.

Social Interaction Challenges

Adolescents with Scheuermann’s disease may also face challenges in social settings. The condition can limit their physical activities and participation in sports, which are significant avenues for socializing and building friendships. This restriction can make them feel isolated or different from their peers, further impacting their social confidence and emotional well-being.

Long-Term Psychological Effects

Without timely medical intervention, the psychological effects can persist into adulthood. Those who do not receive appropriate treatment during their adolescent years may continue to suffer from low self-esteem and social anxiety due to chronic pain and physical limitations. This underscores the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care, encompassing both physical and psychological support.

Addressing Scheuermann’s disease early with proper medical care and supportive counseling can mitigate its psychological impacts, helping young individuals maintain a healthier outlook on life.

Why Choose Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Specialists

Our Doctors specialize in Orthopedics at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute. They understand your concerns, can answer your questions regarding your condition, and know how to use their specialized knowledge to assist you. Doctors Richard Hostin, MD, Devesh Ramnath, MD, Ishaq Syed, MD, Shyam Kishan, MD, and Kathryn Wiesman, MD, have many years of training and experience in Spine and Back Pain for kids, adolescents, young adults, and seniors and can help people of all ages get back to living the life they love.

The following comprise a few of the many reasons why patients might choose the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute.

• Expertise in the spine: The team of specialists at Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute consistently provides the expertise and knowledge to be highly recognized by their peers as the very best.  They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions, ensuring the best possible care for their patients.
• Cutting-edge technology: Our practice uses the latest technology and techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions.  In addition, we use minimally invasive procedures that reduce pain and promote faster recovery.
• Comprehensive care: Our practice offers a full range of services, from diagnostic imaging and physical therapy to surgery.  We ensure that patients receive complete, seamless care for their spinal conditions.
• Dedicated facilities: Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute doctors, surgeons, physician assistants, technicians, nurses, and staff dedicate their lives to providing patients with the finest medical care available.

Finally, our board-certified physicians and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons use the full range of treatments to treat their spine patients. Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute’s experts with offices in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas offer cutting-edge technology, comprehensive care, and dedicated facilities to ensure the best possible care for their patients. Get in touch with us today at (214) 556-0555 to schedule an appointment.

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National Library of Medicine: Scheuermann’s Kyphosis