4 mo. with a 37 degree scoliosis

[Ryan]

We had an X-ray on our 4 mo. old boy and it shows a 37 degree scolisis. We are trying to get an appointment with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix Arizona. We're not having much luck and dont have much of an idea what to expect. We don't have a diagnosis so we are just assuming. If anyone has any help to offer on what we can expect it will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Ryan

[cherylplinder]

Please read Celia Vogel's articles posted on this forum. Her child was diagnosed with a 60 degree curve at 3 1/2. Her orthopedic surgeon used serial casting for a couple of years, I think. That reduced the curve significantly. She has recently started wearing a Spinecor brace, with an inbrace measurement of 1 degree.
I know she would say to get your child in to see a specialist ASAP. I have read other posts from parents that say their child's infantile scoliosis progressed at an incredible rate. That doesn't always happen, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
You will be on my heart and mind.

[Celia]

Hi Ryan,

I read your post on the infantile/juvenile group and for some reason, I'm having trouble getting in there - the computer just stalls Your son is getting a TLSO within the next few days ? I take it he has the idiopathic variety since most doctors don't brace congenital curves. When is he scheduled for the MRI ? MRIs are important because there could be other things going on that are contributing to his scoliosis - i.e., tethered cord etc.
You also mentioned in another post that his curve is rigid ? Did your ortho tell you your son has a rigid curve ? Did your ortho mention serial casting as an option ? If not, I would go to the closest hospital that does serial casting and that would be the Shriners in Utah. How close is Arizona to Utah I would just phone the Shriners directly and get your application in. There are organizations that will fly you free of charge to get to medical appointments. If you need help with that let us know.

BTW....how old is your son is he 4 months or 8 ? One of your other posts you said he is 8 months old. I don't know if bracing alone would be sufficient for a 4 month old. There are some studies which say that bracing can be effective for children under a year - I think because their bones are almost like cartilage, but since he has a rigid curve I would stress casting as the way to go.

[Celia]

Hi Ryan,

It just occurred to me that you might not be the same person that posted on the other group I think I better just call it a day.....