OT-but need help-long

[momto3pirates]

First time posting in this board, but I need expert help. My DS11 was diagnosed with "mild" scoliosis last week. He has been having back pain for the last 6 months, but only occasionly. It only comes on when he has to walk for any extended period of time. We took him in 2 weeks ago and they did xrays. We finally got a phone call back, a week after the xrays were taken saying he has it, no big deal, give him Tylenol. Needless to say, I need more than that. Anyway, I am getting no where with the doctors office. Where do I start? What kind of specialist do I take him to? He needs follow up xrays, right? Dr. office says no. I'm so confused!!!
Thanks for any info...

 

[leebee]

When the pediatrician thought DD had scoliosis, she referred us to a pediatric orthopedist who took great xrays and confirmed scoliosis. He also referred us to a physical therapist who has worked with DD to help her learn how to strengthen and balance her other muscles better, so she can compensate for the curve. Fortunately DD's scoliosis is very mild and this has helped enormously. Good luck.

 

[homeschoolmomof4]

My oldest DS has mild scoliosis. He sees a pediatric orthopedic surgeon every few months for x-rays and status checks and gets physical therapy to help him deal with the muscle imbalances and the pain. He's been being watched quite carefully because he's going through puberty and is growing quite rapidly which can cause rapid changes in his scoliosis. At 11, your DS could be entering phases of rapid growth as well and should be monitored. Do you need a referral from your primary doctor to see a specialist? If not, I'd try to set up an appointment with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon ASAP. I know around here it's very difficult to get in to see one, so the sooner you do it, the better. If you need the referral, I'd really push the issue with your doctor. Your child is in pain and doesn't need to be. Is your son's doctor a pediatrician?

 

[momto3pirates]

This is what I needed to know. He has an appointment with a specialist on Thursday. I just picked up his cd of radiographs from the hospital. I know I will find out more when we go, but do your kids have any restrictions on activities? Thanks again!!

 

[homeschoolmomof4]

My orthopedic surgeon has encouraged me to keep my son as active as possible. He played football in the fall with her blessing and hopefully he'll play Freshman football in the fall next year. DS sometimes gets uncomfortable sitting in his classes(they're an hour and a half long) so his teachers let him get up, walk around and stretch if he needs to. When my son keeps up with his exercises from PT, his pain levels and his strength are good. Unfortunately, teenagers are not always really good at keeping up with these things.

Keep us updated on how things go with the appointment on Thursday.

 

[momto3pirates]

The good news is the ortho. doctor wants to do physical therapy and seems to think it will be all that is needed. Thank you all for your help. We start next week. Hopefully I can get DS to do his "homework" and listen to the therapist.