Rhiannon was an active 14-year-old girl. When she occasionally complained to her parents about aches and pains in her back, there was no reason to think it was anything more sinister than sore muscles from one of her dance classes, or something she’d pulled while horse riding.
Scoliosis in children
A spinal curve that may take the shape of a single or double curve is treated by a team of paediatric spinal surgeons, neurosurgeons and therapists at The Portland Hospital.
About scoliosis in children
Scoliosis in children occurs between the ages of 10 to 18 and is more common in girls by a ratio of 2:1. In most cases of adolescent scoliosis the cause is unknown, and this is called idiopathic adolescent scoliosis. The majority of children are healthy and have no other medical problems.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis, a curvature of the spine that’s noticeable from the front. It can be
- present at birth (congenital scoliosis)
- appear later in a child’s life early or late onset idiopathic scoliosis otherwise known as neonatal, infantile of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
- associated with neuromuscular and genetic syndromic conditions, such ataxia, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and Friedreich’s ataxia
- Idiopathic and Scheuermann’s kyphosis, a curvature of the spine visible when viewed from the side
Our specialist spinal team
Our surgical specialists are based at The Portland hospital and supported by a multidisciplinary team of paediatricians, radiologists, anaesthetists, specialist nurses, physiotherapists, orthotists and play therapy specialists. Our spinal team meets to discuss paediatric patient cases in depth, ensuring that your child benefits from all-round knowledge, advice and treatment for their specific condition.
Surgical treatment
Operations are led by two consultants as standard to reduce complications and the length of your child’s hospital stay. The team also offers combined speciality surgery with neurosurgical and vascular support for a full breadth of surgical options.
Non-surgical treatments for spinal conditions and scoliosis
Non-surgical physiotherapy is available for children with scoliosis. We offer bracing programmes for young patients with spinal curves that measure between 25º and 40º, as well as other effective orthotic interventions like specialist footwear and insoles.
You can visit our paediatric outpatient centres at The Portland Hospital, Chiswick, Golders Green, Elstree and at The Shard at London Bridge. And, if your child is required to have treatment at The Portland Hospital, you can be assured that it is designed to create a safe and comfortable environment with opportunities to play and relax.
Patient stories
Rhiannon’s courage: Recovering after scoliosis surgery
Mimi’s story: Scoliosis surgery at 58 degrees
As 16-year-old Mimi climbed to the top of the giant Slitherine water slide in Dubai’s Atlantis aquaventure park, she had a momentary change of heart. Just three months before, the teenager from Walton on Thames, Surrey, had undergone major back surgery for scoliosis and started the difficult process of recovery. Seconds after her moment of doubt, she was plunging down the slide with her little sister, while their mum Tamara looked on.
Jack's Spinal Scoliosis story
Jack’s mother Jaime noticed his shoulder blades were slightly uneven in March 2020, at the start of the UK COVID-19 lockdown. After being faced with a long wait for a referral, a chance recommendation led Jaime to turn to The Portland Hospital. Here Jaime shares their story and explain why this surgery was so important.
Our location
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street
London, W1W 5AH
Book your appointment
To book your HCA UK appointment with one of our spinal experts, you can call or book online using our consultant finder. Remember to have your referral letter to hand. If you have private medical insurance, you’ll also need your membership number and authorisation code. We’ll confirm your appointment on the phone or online. If you have any special requests we’ll get back to you, either by phone or email within 24 hours.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.