Scoliosis

The Emerson Scoliosis Program is a non-operative, team-based program in New England. The program brings together a team of experts that is committed to providing the most effective care for scoliosis.

a woman helping a child stretch

Scoliosis Care, Personalized

We provide expert scoliosis care for patients of all ages, offering personalized treatments based on individual needs. Using advanced diagnostics like X-rays and MRIs, we tailor care to ensure the best outcomes. Treatment options include observation, bracing, and Schroth physical therapy, all aimed at reducing curve progression, improving posture, and strengthening the core. We empower families with knowledge and resources to support informed decisions and care. Our approach combines specialized Schroth Method therapy and customized bracing when needed for optimal results.

Our Scoliosis Expert

John Cahoy - Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

John Cahoy MD, PhD

Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedics, Pediatric Orthopedics, Scoliosis Accepting new patients

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  • John Cahoy - Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

    John Cahoy

    MD, PhD

    Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedics, Pediatric Orthopedics, Scoliosis

    Accepting new patients

About Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves unusually, often forming an “S” or “C” shape when seen on an X-ray. This happens because the spine grows unevenly, causing it to bend in both the side-to-side and forward/backward directions.

Types of Scoliosis:

  • Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common type, with no known cause.
  • Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Caused by weak or abnormal muscles, often linked to conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
  • Congenital Scoliosis: Occurs when the spine doesn’t develop properly during pregnancy, causing a curve at birth.
  • Adult Scoliosis: Can develop from childhood scoliosis or age-related changes in the spine.
  • Other Causes: Scoliosis may also result from conditions like joint hypermobility or leg length differences.

Scoliosis in Children:

  • About 3-5% of children develop scoliosis, with the majority of cases appearing in children aged 10-18 years. 90% of scoliosis cases in children are idiopathic (without a known cause).
  • The condition can progress quickly during growth spurts, especially for girls between 11-14 years and boys between 13-18 years. Early treatment or monitoring is important during these growth periods to prevent the curve from worsening.
  • The earlier scoliosis is detected, the better the chances of preventing further curve progression, especially during the child’s growing years.

Our Program

We offer personalized options based on our patient’s condition, including:

  • Scoliosis Clinic — Our clinic provides comprehensive care for children and teens with scoliosis. During a single visit, your child can:
    • See an orthotist for a spine assessment and brace fitting
    • Schedule physical therapy
    • Get on-site low-dose X-rays
    • Have questions answered

    This streamlined approach ensures efficient, coordinated care.

  • Physical Therapy — Scoliosis Schroth-certified physical therapists who provide uniquely tailored scoliosis-specific exercises with the goal of three-dimensional postural correction.
  • Bracing — Our program prides itself on being the only clinic in New England with orthotists certified in the two most innovative and established braces today: the WCR brace and the Boston Brace.
  • The Wood-Cheneau-Rigo (WCR) brace builds on many decades of advances and has proven itself over two decades of use in Europe. Originally designed from Schroth therapy principles, it is customized to the patient and relatively lightweight, providing 20 pressure points that address the side-bending and the rotational component of a scoliotic curve.
  • The Boston Brace is a well-established brace that is used all over the world. The custom-made Boston Brace 3D orthosis works to correct the spine in all three planes — coronal, sagittal and transverse. A design with a unique shift/push combination of corrective forces that move the spine into a corrected position and openings that allow for rotational correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Schroth Method?

The Schroth Method is a specialized physical therapy approach for scoliosis. It uses individualized exercises designed to improve posture, reduce the risk of curve progression, and strengthen core muscles. Treatment includes:

  • Corrective breathing techniques
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Postural correction
  • Scoliosis education and self-management strategies

How many sessions of Schroth physical therapy will I need?

Most patients start with one session per week for 8 to 10 weeks. If you are under 18, we will continue to monitor your progress with periodic check-ins throughout your scoliosis treatment journey.

Will I need to do exercises at home?

Yes. You will receive a home exercise plan with 20 minutes of exercises, five times a week to support your therapy progress.

Will I need a back brace?

  • For children and adolescents: If you are under 18 and still growing, your orthopedist will determine whether a brace is needed. The type of brace and how long you need to wear it will depend on your age and the severity of your scoliosis. Wear time typically ranges from 12 to 22 hours per day until growth slows down.
  • For adults: Bracing is not typically recommended but may be helpful in certain cases, such as:
    • Large spinal curves
    • Significant pain affecting daily activities
    • Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods
      Your therapist may recommend a prefabricated brace (available online) or a custom-fabricated brace, worn for up to four hours per day in specific cases.

I am an adult. Can Schroth therapy improve my scoliosis?

While scoliosis cannot be reversed in adults, Schroth therapy can improve:

  • Posture
  • Core strength
  • Body awareness
  • Balance and endurance
  • Discomfort and pain management

Many adults experience a significant improvement in symptoms and overall function.

Do I need a referral from an Emerson Health doctor for physical therapy?

No. We accept referrals from any licensed physician.

Do I need a spine X-ray before starting therapy?

No. You can begin therapy without an X-ray. Your therapist may recommend one if needed to tailor your treatment plan.

Do you accept all insurance plans?

We accept most major insurance providers. However, we recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm coverage.

 

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