Scoliosis Treatment Backed By Study

Illawarra Mercury

Wednesday May 16, 2001

A new study will radically improve the treatment of scoliosis, the curvature of the spine which affects one in every 100 teenage girls, researchers said.

Orthopaedic specialists at the Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick will begin studying new treatment techniques and research to improve those with scoliosis.

Dr John Stephen, who heads the research team, said they will study three groups of 40 girls aged 10, 11 and 12.

``This research will make predictions concerning curve progression (of the spine) more reliable and lead to a more effective way of treating patients," Dr Stephen said.

``It will allow doctors to better determine which patients require observation, bracing, or surgery upon diagnosis."