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Adolescent scoliosis: understanding the risk of progression

If your child has recently been diagnosed with scoliosis, you’re probably wondering whether their spinal curve will get worse, especially if they haven’t finished growing yet.

The good news is that the risk of progression can be discussed using well-established clinical methods. Research has shown that certain factors like the size of the curve and how much growth a child has left can help predict whether scoliosis is likely to worsen.

How do we predict scoliosis progression?

Every child develops at a different pace, so their age alone doesn’t determine their risk. Instead, medical teams look at a combination of factors, including:

  • Your child’s age
  • Skeletal maturity (Risser sign): a scale from 0 to 5 that helps assess how much growth remains. A Risser 0 means there’s still a lot of growth to come, while a Risser 5 means skeletal maturity has been reached.
  • Cobb angle: A measurement of the spinal curve, taken from X-rays.

By combining these factors, a specialist can discuss how likely it is that the curve will worsen.

How can LOC help?

If you are considering bracing, our orthotic team can review the measurements you already have from your medical team (for example Cobb angle and Risser sign) to advise on orthotic options, brace suitability, and what follow-up usually involves.

If you do not have scans or measurements yet, that’s OK. We can talk you through the usual next steps and what information is helpful to bring from your GP or specialist, and explain the orthotic options that may be available if bracing is appropriate.

What happens next?

If you’re considering bracing, you can book a free online orthotic consultation with an orthotist. We can talk through your child’s measurements (from your medical report), explain what they may mean for brace suitability, and outline what follow-up usually involves.

If you have concerns about progression risk, your GP or specialist team can advise. We can then support you with orthotic options alongside medical care, where bracing is appropriate.

  • Please note: This information is for general education and should not replace medical advice from a consultant or specialist.

Click here to find out more about LOC’s non-surgical scoliosis treatment

A lightweight, custom 3D scoliosis brace designed to optimise in-brace correction

A bespoke brace can help reduce the risk of progression during growth and support curve management as part of a wider care plan. Our brace works by gently guiding your spine into a more corrective in-brace position, with follow-up and adjustments to support fit and comfort.

 

“LOC has been fantastic, friendly, understanding. Anna did not pull any punches about the wearing regime and gave us all the information we needed. Polly was in her brace for less than two years. LOC has provided a really incredible service.”

Zoe, Polly’s mother – Scoliosis patient (adolescent)

Get in touch for a free online orthotic consultation

Speak to our team about your options, with no obligation to begin treatment.

Not sure which appointment to book?

  • New patients: Please book an Assessment.
  • Existing patients: Please book a Review.

If you can’t find a suitable appointment, please contact us and our admin team will be happy to help.

020 8974 9989
  • You can book a range of assessment and review appointments online, depending on the service and location that you require. If a specific appointment type is unavailable online, please contact LOC directly on [email protected] or you can call us. Unfortunately we are unable to offer fittings online at the moment.

  • Yes, if your previous orthotist offers online booking and has availability, you can choose to book with them again.

  • Please check your spam or junk folder first. If you still haven’t received a confirmation within 10 minutes, contact LOC Admin to confirm your booking via [email protected]

     

  • Yes. You can book on behalf of someone else. Please ensure the registration form includes the details of the person attending the appointment.

  • No account is required. Our booking process allows you to book as a guest. However, you will be asked to enter key details and complete required forms.

  • Most orthotic treatments are available online. If the treatment you’re looking for is not listed, please contact us directly and LOC Admin will assist you.

Get in touch for a free online orthotic consultation