Juvenile thoracic scoliosis affects the thoracic vertebrae, which comprise the middle part of the spine between the neck and lower back. This is one of three areas typically affected by scoliosis, or abnormal curvature of the spine. Treatment will depend on several factors.

Determining Treatment

When deciding on a course of action for juvenile scoliosis, your doctor will consider the extent of spinal maturity, degree of the curve and the likelihood it will worsen. Children with extensive curvatures before a growth spurt have a higher risk of progression. Thoracic curves are more likely than other types to progress.

Observation

If your child has a mild curve, your doctor will probably choose to observe it. Typically, your child will receive a front- and side-view X-ray every four to six months to check for progression, according to the Scoliosis Research Foundation. Unless the curve progresses rapidly, your child might never require treatment.

Bracing

Your child will need a brace if he is still growing and the curve continues to worsen. Braces will not cure the problem but keep the curve from getting worse. Ultimately, he will need surgery. Children wear the brace until their bones reach full maturity. Different braces are available, and your doctor will decide on the best one based on factors like age and the doctor's own experience in using them on other patients.

Traction

Braces are not optimal in all cases. Another option is traction, which involves attaching a metal ring (halo) around the head. Doctors attach weights, which gently pull on the spine to straighten it out. The weight increases incrementally. Like bracing, this is usually a precursor to surgery.

Surgery

Surgery can permanently correct abnormal curvature. Doctors fuse two or more vertebrae to a bone graft, which straightens out the existing curve and prevents new abnormal growth.

Source:

Scoliosis Research Foundation

The Mayo Clinic