Understanding Scoliosis and Spine Disorders: A Guide for Parents from Nicklaus Children’s Hospital
As a parent, ensuring your child’s health and well-being is your top priority. When it comes to spine disorders like scoliosis, early detection and treatment are crucial. Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s Orthopedic, Sports Medicine, and Spine Institute has been a trusted leader in pediatric spinal care for over 35 years, offering state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions.
Common Spine Disorders in Children
- Scoliosis: A curvature of the spine, often detected during adolescent growth spurts. Symptoms include uneven shoulders, waist, or hips.
- Kyphosis: Excessive outward curvature of the spine, leading to a hunched back.
- Lordosis: An excessive inward curve of the lower spine.
Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment
The center utilizes the latest in imaging technology, such as the EOSedge™ system, which provides high-quality, 3D images with minimal radiation exposure. This technology helps in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, ensuring the best outcomes for your child. EOS imaging is offered at the hospital’s main campus, as well as its orthopedic office locations in Miramar and Palm Beach Gardens.
Comprehensive Care Team
A multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, neurophysiologists, and specialized nurses works together to provide holistic care. This team approach is designed to offer the highest level of surgical precision and post-operative care, minimizing recovery time and enhancing the overall patient experience.
Scoliosis Screenings
Regular scoliosis screenings at school or during pediatric visits are essential. If a positive result is found, further evaluation by a spine specialist is necessary. Early intervention can prevent the progression of the condition and avoid more invasive treatments.
Family-Centered Approach
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital emphasizes a family-friendly approach, with dedicated nurses and Child Life Specialists who support families throughout the treatment journey. Preoperative education and post-operative care are tailored to ease the stress associated with an operation to ensure a smooth recovery for both the child or adolescent and his/her family.
Research and Innovation
The institute is at the forefront of research, constantly seeking new ways to reduce radiation exposure and improve surgical outcomes. They are also exploring fusion-less surgical techniques, offering innovative solutions for scoliosis correction.
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is the only facility in South Florida that uses three-dimensional technology for scoliosis surgical planning. They offer appointments with pediatric orthopedic surgeons and spine specialists in locations throughout the tri-county area, including the Nicklaus Children’s Palm Beach Gardens Outpatient Center located in Legacy Place.
Key Takeaways for Parents
- Early Detection: Regular screenings are vital for early diagnosis and treatment.
- Advanced Technology: Cutting-edge imaging and surgical techniques ensure the best care.
- Comprehensive Care: A team approach provides holistic treatment and support.
- Family Support: The hospital offers extensive resources to support families through treatment and recovery.
The Orthopedic, Sports Medicine, and Spine Institute is comprised of a dedicated team of orthopedic surgeons, specialists and advanced practice professionals specialized in pediatric orthopedic needs. The team offers timely appointments in over 7 locations throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.
For after-hours care when are the orthopedic clinics are closed, Nicklaus Children’s pediatric urgent care facilities, South Florida’s only pediatric urgent care centers dedicated exclusively to kids, are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., to evaluate, diagnose and treat children and adolescents under age 21 with minor injuries and fractures.
For more detailed information and to explore the full range of services, visit Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s Orthopedic, Sports Medicine and Spine Institute.
