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View our privacy policyBeau’s fantastic attitude makes all the difference to the success of her scoliosis treatment
LOC recently heard from one of our young patients, Beau, who was diagnosed in 2020 with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. As the Scoliosis Association UK confirms, the term ‘idiopathic’ means that there is no known cause for the condition. The good news, though, is that plenty can be done to improve the curvature of the spine in young people. And, with the right treatment package, surgery can be avoided whilst still achieving great results.
Beau has embraced her treatment programme wholeheartedly. Her positive outlook and ‘can-do’ attitude are inspiring. In fact, she is so thrilled with her results that she wants to be a LOC poster girl for scoliosis bracing, to encourage other young people in her situation to seek similar help. As she so maturely says:
“If you say something is going to be easy it will be easy and if you say something will be hard it will be hard. So, I’m just going to say that wearing my brace is easy. And as it turns out, it really is.”
When Beau first attended our Kingston upon Thames clinic, she presented with a thoracic Cobb angle of 43°, which meant she had nearly reached the threshold where surgery is recommended. Our orthotist, assessed Beau’s spinal curvature and prescribed her a bespoke Cheneau-Gensingen brace – our preferred treatment for scoliosis as it provides three-dimensional, gently corrective pressure that is proven to be highly effective at reducing Cobb angles.
Cheneau-Gensingen bracing is usually combined with a course of Schroth physiotherapy for the most effective results. This involves a commitment from the patient to perform their exercises regularly. Our physiotherapy treatment for scoliosis is designed on a bespoke basis for each patient, with curve-pattern specific exercises that utilise gravity to improve and maintain spinal alignment through over-correction.
At her latest review, we were delighted to observe in her latest in-brace X-rays that Beau’s posture continues to improve dramatically. We look forward to her next out of brace X-ray which we anticipate will confirm this fantastic progress!
Naturally, Beau’s mum, Jodie, is also thrilled with her progress and with the overall experience, her daughter has had at LOC. “LOC have helped remove the stress from our situation,” she recently told us. “They have given us hope based on their extensive knowledge and expertise.”
Especially in young people, spotting the early signs of scoliosis is important – as is seeking early treatment. These are the warning signs to look out for:
You can find out more about the visual signs of scoliosis here.
If you think your child, adolescent, or adult family member has scoliosis, you can contact LOC directly to arrange a consultation at one of our scoliosis clinics.
The operation used to treat severe scoliosis curves is typically spinal fusion surgery; a major procedure that involves moving muscles and realigning the skeleton into place. The curved, deformed vertebrae are fused together into a single bone, putting metal screws and rods into the spine to help straighten it. Surgery typically lasts between 4 and 8 hours depending on the severity of the curve. Bone graft is then taken from other parts of the body and used to cover the implants.
Following the operation, it is necessary to spend around a week in intensive care before returning home and the first few days are often uncomfortable. Most adolescents can expect to return to school from 2-4 weeks following surgery, but pain medication may be required up to 6 weeks following. A full recovery from the procedure can take up to a year, as it can take that long for the spine to heal fully. Spinal fusion surgery causes the fused portion of the back to become permanently stiff, as a result, returning to sports that require large amounts of flexibility (ballet, yoga, gymnastics, dance) or contact (rugby, football, karate, hockey) may take longer.
Risks of spinal fusion surgery are like that of any other major procedure and include infection, blood clots and anaesthesia complications. The added risks include permanent nerve damage to the spine and paralysis.
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)
Speak to our team about your options, with no obligation to begin treatment.
Not sure which appointment to book?
If you can’t find a suitable appointment, please contact us and our admin team will be happy to help.
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.
