Raising awareness of scoliosis among children’s nurses
Intended for healthcare professionals
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Raising awareness of scoliosis among children’s nurses

Cheryl Honeyman Specialist nurse, scoliosis and paediatric spine, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough

Scoliosis affects up to 3% of adolescents, some babies and young children, and many children with existing neuromuscular and syndromic conditions. It is the most common spinal deformity. Not all children with scoliosis require active intervention, but for more significant, progressive curves, bracing and/or surgery may be required. Bracing studies have historically been of low methodological quality, but a recent randomised controlled trial (Weinstein et al 2013) has shown the efficacy of bracing in decreasing curve progression, thus reducing the necessity of surgery for some patients. Modern surgical techniques are effective in correcting scoliosis, but the surgery is major, with significant risks. Early identification of scoliosis is vital to maximise effective treatment, support the child and family, and optimise holistic health.

Nursing Children and Young People. 26, 5, 30-37. doi: 10.7748/ncyp.26.5.30.e411

Correspondence

cheryl.honeyman@stees.nhs.uk

Peer review

This article has been subject to open peer review

Conflict of interest

None declared

Received: 25 May 2013

Accepted: 28 August 2013

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