Pediatric Spine Conditions

Help for pediatric spine conditions, scoliosis

University Spine Center works closely with parents, family members, and the child to develop a comprehensive treatment program based on the latest medical evidence and state-of-the-art therapies. The most appropriate treatment depends on the child’s specific spinal condition, age, and overall health.

For many children, therapeutic approaches such as physical therapy, targeted exercises, and bracing play a central role in improving strength, posture, and spinal alignment. Our specialists assess each child individually to determine which therapies will be most effective and how to integrate them into daily life.

Together with families, University Spine Center will create a personalized plan outlining recommended treatments, expected goals, and strategies to support the child’s comfort, mobility, and long-term spine health. When appropriate, additional interventions — including surgery — may be considered to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Children with spinal conditions may require ongoing medical monitoring, even after symptoms have improved or the condition is well-controlled, to ensure continued progress and spinal health.

Causes of spinal conditions in children

There are many possible causes of spinal problems in children but they can be grouped roughly into four main categories.

1. Mechanical problems

• Injury
• Muscle strain
• Stress fracture of spine
• Ruptured disc, herniated disc

2. Developmental problems

• Scoliosis
• Spondylosis
• Spondylolisthesis

3. Inflammation and infection

• Disc inflammation
• Vertebral osteomyelitis
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

4. Tumors

• Cancer
• Tumors on vertebral column or nearby

Diagnosing spinal conditions in children

University Spine Center offers a variety of diagnostic tests to determine the nature of spinal conditions in children. These diagnostic tests will vary depending on the child, his or her symptoms and the type of condition suspected. Besides a physical examination and medical history, University Spine Center may have the child undergo any or all of the following:

• Diagnostic imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to see bone, tissue, nerve roots and other factors that may contribute to the problem.
• X-rays can show fractures, disc displacement or problems with the vertebrae.
• Bone scans detect infections, inflammation and tumors. Bone scans may even pick up fractures or other problems missed on X-ray.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans to see the child’s spine in 3-D imaging (useful for complex disorders).
• Lab tests, in particular blood tests, to determine the presence of infection or inflammation.

Treating spinal conditions in children

University Spine Center will work with parents and other family members along with the child to develop a treatment program based on the latest medical evidence and state-of-the-art therapies. The kind of treatment that is most appropriate will depend on the child’s spinal condition, his or her age and other health conditions. In many cases, the child with back problems may require some kind of pain reliever at least in the short term. There are many safe and effective painkillers available that are appropriate for even small children. However, no medicine is safe if it is not taken as directed. University Spine Center will recommend appropriate therapy, possibly including surgery, to help control your child’s pain. Children with spinal conditions may require ongoing medical monitoring, even after their back problems are resolved or medically controlled.