Introduction
The 2016 SOSORT guidelines provide comprehensive insights into the orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth. These guidelines aim to align treatment approaches with the latest scientific evidence, ensuring effective and conservative management of scoliosis in growing patients. This blog will explore key aspects of these guidelines, providing practitioners with valuable information to enhance their treatment strategies.
Key Components of the 2016 SOSORT Guidelines
The guidelines emphasize a multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, researchers, and allied health practitioners. The development process included extensive literature reviews and consensus sessions, resulting in 68 recommendations covering various treatment aspects such as bracing, physiotherapy, and scoliosis-specific exercises.
Bracing and Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE)
Bracing is a cornerstone of conservative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis. The guidelines highlight the importance of using braces to prevent curve progression and improve spinal alignment. They recommend different types of bracing, including full-time, part-time, and night-time options, tailored to the patient's needs.
PSSE is another critical component, focusing on exercises that promote auto-correction, daily living training, and posture stabilization. The guidelines encourage practitioners to integrate these exercises into treatment plans to enhance outcomes and reduce the need for surgical intervention.
Assessment and Monitoring
Accurate assessment and regular monitoring are vital for effective scoliosis management. The guidelines recommend using clinical evaluation tools like the Scoliometer and surface topography to assess trunk asymmetry and monitor curve progression. Radiographic evaluations should be performed judiciously to minimize radiation exposure while ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the advancements in conservative scoliosis treatment, challenges remain. The heterogeneity of study protocols limits the generalizability of recommendations, highlighting the need for standardized research methods. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with emerging evidence and actively participate in research initiatives to refine treatment approaches further.
Conclusion
The 2016 SOSORT guidelines offer a robust framework for managing idiopathic scoliosis during growth. By implementing these guidelines, practitioners can improve patient outcomes, reduce surgical interventions, and contribute to the evolving field of scoliosis treatment. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for providing the best care for patients with scoliosis.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: 2016 SOSORT guidelines: orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth.
