Scoliosis

When you first hear the word “scoliosis” applied to your child, it’s natural to feel a flood of emotions—confusion, worry, even fear. You may be wondering: What does this mean for my child’s health? Will it affect their future? Is it serious? At POBAR in Riverview, we understand that no parent wants to hear that their child has a spine condition. But we’re here to gently guide you through this journey—answering your questions, offering compassionate support, and providing the expert care your child deserves. Scoliosis is more common than many parents realize, and in most cases, children live full, active lives with the right monitoring and care. You are not alone, and with the right team by your side, your child can grow strong and confident. What Is Scoliosis? Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways in an “S” or “C” shape. While the spine has natural curves when viewed from the side, scoliosis involves a lateral (side-to-side) curve when viewed from the back. This curve may be mild or more noticeable, and it can affect posture, balance, and—if left untreated—spinal health. Scoliosis often develops during periods of rapid growth, such as the preteen and early teen years. It can be discovered during a routine physical exam, a school screening, or after a parent notices a change in their child’s posture or how their clothing fits. It’s important to know that scoliosis in children is not caused by anything you or your child did. And while hearing the diagnosis can feel overwhelming, most cases are manageable with early detection and supportive care. Signs of Scoliosis in Children Some children don’t have any symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, parents may notice small changes that gradually become more visible as the curve progresses. These signs can include: One shoulder higher than the other Uneven hips or waist One shoulder blade that sticks out more prominently A tilt in the body or head not centered over the pelvis Clothes that hang unevenly Ribs more prominent on one side when bending forward If you’ve noticed any of these changes, even if they seem minor, it’s a good idea to have your child evaluated by a pediatric orthopedic specialist. What Causes Scoliosis? In many cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. This is called idiopathic scoliosis, and it’s the most common type seen in children and teens. Other, less common causes include: Congenital scoliosis: Present at birth due to abnormal spinal development Neuromuscular scoliosis: Associated with conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy Syndromic scoliosis: Related to genetic syndromes or connective tissue disorders Injury or infection: Rarely, scoliosis can develop after spinal trauma or infection Whatever the cause, our team takes a comprehensive, individualized approach to diagnosis and care—always considering your child’s full health and development. When Should You Seek an Evaluation? Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t look or feel right about your child’s posture or movement, or if a school screening has raised a concern, we encourage you to reach out. Scoliosis often develops silently, so early detection is key. An evaluation typically includes: A physical exam A posture assessment Imaging, such as X-rays, to determine the curve’s size and location We ensure that these evaluations are as gentle and reassuring as possible. We take the time to explain each step in terms that both you and your child can understand—without fear or confusion. Treatment Options for Scoliosis in Children Treatment for scoliosis depends on several factors, including the curve’s size, the child’s age and stage of growth, and whether the curve is likely to progress. Here are common care pathways: Observation and Monitoring For mild curves (typically under 20 degrees), regular monitoring is often all that’s needed. We’ll keep an eye on how your child grows and how the curve changes over time. Bracing For moderate curves (around 20–40 degrees) in growing children, a brace may help prevent the curve from worsening. Braces are custom-fitted and worn under clothing. They don’t “fix” the curve, but they are very effective in halting progression during growth. Physical Therapy While therapy doesn’t correct the curve, it can improve posture, balance, and core strength, making movement more comfortable and confident. Surgery In severe cases (usually curves over 45–50 degrees), surgery may be recommended to correct the curve and stabilize the spine. We understand that the idea of surgery can be frightening, and we’re here to walk you through every step—compassionately and clearly. We work closely with families to create personalized plans that fit your child’s needs, lifestyle, and goals. Your input matters every step of the way. Our Commitment to Compassionate, Child-Centered Care Scoliosis is not just a physical condition—it affects how a child feels about themselves and how parents cope with uncertainty. That’s why our care extends beyond the exam room. We offer: Gentle, non-intimidating exams designed for children Clear, age-appropriate communication to help your child understand their body Family-focused care with time to ask every question Emotional support to help children and parents feel empowered, not afraid We believe that how we care is just as important as what we do. What You Can Do at Home Supporting your child with scoliosis doesn’t stop at the clinic. Here are some things you can do: Reassure your child: Let them know that scoliosis doesn’t define them. Encourage open conversations and validate their feelings. Support brace use (if recommended): Help your child understand the purpose of their brace and celebrate their responsibility. Encourage movement: Stay active as advised by your care team. Swimming, yoga, and core exercises can be beneficial. Attend follow-up visits: These are essential for tracking progress and adjusting care as needed. Celebrate their strength: Every child on this journey deserves recognition for their courage and resilience. You’re Not Alone—POBAR Is Here for You If your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis or you’re concerned about their spinal development, we are here to listen, evaluate, and guide. At POBAR, we offer more than expert care—we offer compassionate partnership,

Scoliosis doesn’t have to stand in the way of your child’s growth and confidence. At POBAR in Tampa, FL, we specialize in personalized scoliosis care, offering solutions like monitoring, bracing, physical therapy, and advanced surgical options when needed. Early detection and tailored treatment can stop curve progression, improve posture, and support your child’s overall well-being. As parents, you want your child to grow strong and stand tall—both physically and in confidence. But for kids with scoliosis, that journey can feel a little different. Scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves sideways, can affect a child’s posture, comfort, and overall health if left untreated. At POBAR in Tampa, FL, we’re here to help. We specialize in pediatric scoliosis care, offering treatments tailored to your child’s needs. From monitoring mild cases to advanced interventions for more significant curves, we provide expert, compassionate care to ensure your child can grow and thrive without limitations. What Is Scoliosis? Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally, often taking on an “S” or “C” shape. It typically develops during growth spurts in childhood or adolescence and can range from mild to severe. Common Types of Scoliosis Scoliosis is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It comes in several forms, each with unique causes and characteristics. Understanding the type of scoliosis your child has is an important first step in creating a tailored treatment plan. Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common type, with no known cause. It’s often detected in children and teenagers during routine checkups. Congenital Scoliosis: Caused by abnormal spinal development before birth. Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Linked to conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, which affect muscle and nerve function. Signs of Scoliosis to Watch For Detecting scoliosis early can make all the difference in your child’s treatment and overall health. The sooner it’s identified, the easier it is to prevent the curve from worsening and avoid potential complications. Here are the key signs parents should look for: Uneven Shoulders or Hips: One of the most noticeable signs of scoliosis is asymmetry in the shoulders or hips. For example, one shoulder may appear higher than the other, or one hip may be tilted. One Shoulder Blade Sticks Out More: When your child stands or bends forward, you might notice that one shoulder blade protrudes more than the other. This is a classic indicator of scoliosis. Curved Spine: If your child’s spine looks more like an “S” or “C” rather than a straight line, it’s a clear sign to seek medical evaluation. This curvature is often most visible when they bend forward. Clothes That Don’t Fit Evenly: If your child’s clothes seem uneven—such as shirts hanging lower on one side or pant legs appearing different lengths—it could indicate scoliosis affecting their posture. Difficulty Standing Straight: Children with scoliosis may struggle to stand perfectly upright, and their posture may appear slightly slouched or off-balance. Rib Cage Prominence or Uneven Waistline: In more advanced cases, you might notice a rib hump or unevenness in the waistline when your child bends forward. This is caused by the rotation of the spine. Why Early Detection and Treatment Matter Scoliosis can worsen over time, especially during growth spurts, which is why early detection and treatment are so important. Identifying scoliosis in its early stages allows us to monitor the condition and intervene when necessary to prevent the curve from progressing. At POBAR, we work with families to develop personalized treatment plans that fit your child’s unique needs and stage of growth. Our goal is to: Stop Curve Progression: Preventing the spine from curving further reduces the risk of complications. Improve Posture and Comfort: Proper treatment supports better alignment, reduces pain, and boosts confidence. Enhance Long-Term Health: Preventing severe curves helps avoid potential issues with lung or heart function as your child grows. How We Treat Pediatric Scoliosis at POBAR Every child’s scoliosis journey is unique, and our approach reflects that. We tailor treatment to the severity of the curve, your child’s age, and how much growth remains. Monitoring for Mild Cases For small curves, we may recommend regular checkups to monitor progression. These checkups allow us to act quickly if the condition worsens during growth spurts. Bracing for Moderate Curves If the curve is moderate and your child is still growing, bracing can help prevent it from worsening. Braces are custom-fitted to your child’s body and worn for a specific number of hours each day. While braces won’t straighten the spine, they are highly effective at controlling curve progression. Physical Therapy Targeted exercises and stretches can strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and reduce discomfort associated with scoliosis. Physical therapy can be an excellent complement to bracing or monitoring. Surgical Interventions for Severe Cases For severe curves that are causing significant issues or progressing rapidly, surgical treatment may be necessary. At POBAR, we use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to correct the spine’s alignment and stabilize growth, ensuring your child’s long-term health and mobility. How POBAR Supports Families At POBAR, we believe in a family-centered approach to scoliosis care. Managing scoliosis is a journey, and we’re here to guide you through every step. Education and Guidance We make sure you understand your child’s condition, treatment options, and what to expect throughout the process. You’ll leave each visit feeling informed and confident about your child’s care. Personalized Treatment Plans No two cases of scoliosis are alike, and neither are our care plans. We create customized solutions that fit your child’s specific needs, from bracing schedules to exercise routines. Ongoing Monitoring Your child’s growth and development are dynamic, which is why we provide regular follow-ups to adjust treatment as needed. Our proactive approach ensures the best possible outcomes. Support for Emotional Well-Being We know scoliosis can affect a child’s confidence, especially during adolescence. Our compassionate team works to create a positive environment, helping your child feel comfortable and supported. Help Your Child Stand Tall with POBAR in Tampa, FL! At POBAR, we know that every child deserves the chance to grow tall, strong, and confident.