Expert: Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 10/20/2007

Question
my 16 yr was taken to the ped doctor, and given a referral to a orthorpedic surgeon.  So far i have not went there.  I took him to a chriropractor, but i dont see any results.  By the xrays he had a bulging disc, and thoractic khosis(sorry i dont have the exact wording).  Anyway he has a rounded back, you can especially see this when he bends over, in the middle of his back its like a round bump.  I am leary to take him to the surgeon, in case of surgery.  What do you think?  Thank you for any advise, Kae

Answer
Hi Kae,

You need to find a DC that specializes is scoliosis. I am not that guy, I do everything else but pediatric scoliosis. I do know with early treatment, a good DC can make a world of difference. I would ask Dr. Leatherman or Gillman (Experts on this site) about this.
I would go to the Ortho as well just for a referral to a Chiro that he works with. Many times surgery is necessary if it is extreme. I am an expert in diagnosis and disc decompression, that I can certainly help you with.
Your sons disc can easily be fixed with flexion/distraction, you only need to call a few DC's in your area until you find one that has this special table. He/She may even be able to advise or effectively treat your sons scoliosis.
I know in 2 weeks, the disc should be markedly improved. That really is no big deal to fix and surely does not require surgery. The scoliosis might, depends on severity.  

I would also search the web about Chiropractic and scoliosis and find a DC that is prominent, preferably near or at a teaching institution. Depending on where you live, there may be a good Chiropractic college nearby, they would certainly be able to help you at one of their many outpatient centers. Here is a link about the F/D tables for the disc problem. This table also treats scoliosis, I only use it for discs. A certified doctor on the link below may have the expertise to combine the F/D with low volt muscle electrical stimulation to correct the curvature. That is how it is done, I just am too busy with herniated discs to add anymore on my plate.

http://www.coxtechnic.com/

Let me know if you need me to get more hands on, I am available by phone if requested.

Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin