Providing early detection and treatment for growing kids.
Understanding Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that affects an estimated seven million people in the United States, according to the National Scoliosis Foundation. While it can appear in children with congenital or neuromuscular conditions, scoliosis most often develops in healthy children with no identifiable cause—this is known as idiopathic scoliosis.
At Mary Free Bed Kids, our goal is early detection and proactive treatment to prevent curvature progression and promote healthy spinal alignment. Through advanced therapy techniques like the Schroth Method and customized orthotic bracing, we help children move, grow and thrive with confidence.
What Causes Scoliosis
Scoliosis can appear at any age, but it most commonly develops during a child’s growth spurt before puberty. While most cases are mild, spinal curves can worsen as a child grows. Therefore, regular monitoring is essential.
Common Types of Scoliosis:
- Idiopathic Scoliosis: The most common form; the cause is unknown, but it’s often detected during adolescence.
- Congenital Scoliosis: Present at birth due to malformation of spinal bones.
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy.
- Degenerative Scoliosis: Less common in children, typically occurs in adults due to wear and tear.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Uneven shoulders or hips
- A visible curve in the spine
- One shoulder blade appearing more prominent
- Uneven waistline or rib cage
- Clothing that hangs unevenly
If you suspect your child has scoliosis, early evaluation and treatment are key to preventing curve progression and improving posture and comfort.
Diagnosing Scoliosis
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination by a pediatric rehabilitation specialist or orthopedic physician.
Diagnostic steps may include:
- Observation: Checking for asymmetry in shoulder height, waistline or spine alignment.
- Adam’s Forward Bend Test: Identifying spinal rotation or rib prominence.
- X-rays: Measuring the degree of spinal curvature (Cobb angle) to determine the severity and best course of care.
Early detection allows for timely intervention, often reducing the need for surgery later in life.
Scoliosis Treatment at Mary Free Bed Kids
Our Pediatric Rehabilitation Team provides personalized, non-surgical treatment plans designed to reduce spinal curvature, improve posture and prevent further progression.
The Schroth Method
Mary Free Bed Kids has physical therapists who are certified in the Schroth Method, a proactive, evidence-based approach to scoliosis management that has been used successfully in Europe for decades.
The Schroth Method uses three-dimensional exercises, corrective breathing techniques and postural awareness to:
- De-rotate, elongate and stabilize the spine
- Improve posture and muscle symmetry
- Increase lung capacity and overall function
- Reduce or stop curve progression
Each treatment plan is tailored to your child’s specific spinal curve pattern, age and flexibility. The frequency and duration of therapy sessions are customized to their individual needs.
Our Pediatric Therapy Gym
Our outpatient pediatric therapy gyms are designed to make therapy both effective and engaging. The space includes:
- Stall bars to help elongate the spine during Schroth exercises
- Mirrors for visual feedback to improve posture awareness
- Adaptive equipment to support core strength and flexibility
Our goal is to make every session productive and empowering, helping your child feel more comfortable and confident in their movements.
Customized Bracing Options
For some children, orthotic bracing plays an essential role in preventing scoliosis progression. Depending on your child’s age, bone maturity and degree of curve, our specialists may recommend a custom scoliosis brace.
At Mary Free Bed Orthotics, Prosthetics + Bionics, our professionals are experienced in designing and fitting scoliosis braces that promote alignment while maximizing comfort, mobility and independence.
We work closely with your child’s physician, therapist and family to ensure the brace supports daily function and fits seamlessly into your child’s active life.
Comprehensive, Family-Centered Care
Our Scoliosis Program combines medical expertise, physical therapy and orthotic innovation in a single, coordinated plan. We believe in a family-centered approach that empowers parents and children to take an active role in treatment.
Your child’s care team may include:
- Pediatric physical therapists who specialize in postural correction, movement training and strengthening through the Schroth Method
- Pediatric physical therapists trained in scoliosis management
- Certified orthotists and prosthetists from Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics
- Pediatric physiatrists (rehabilitation physicians) and orthopedic specialists
Together, our team ensures your child’s care is consistent, personalized and aligned with long-term goals for growth, confidence and independence.
Why Choose Mary Free Bed Kids
Families across Michigan and beyond choose Mary Free Bed Kids because we provide:
- Certified therapists trained in the Schroth Method for scoliosis
- Access to on-site pediatric orthotics and bracing experts
- Evidence-based, non-surgical treatment options
- A family-centered environment focused on education and empowerment
- Coordinated care between therapy, orthotics and physicians
Our goal is to help every child stand taller—both physically and emotionally—by improving their posture and strength so they can get back to doing what they love.
Begin Your Child’s Journey
If your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, early treatment can make all the difference. At Mary Free Bed Kids, we’re here to guide your child toward better alignment, confidence and lifelong movement health.
