Scoliosis

What You Need to Know About Spinal Fusion Surgery: Teen Mentors Explain

Teens who have undergone spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis offer advice and encouragement to other teenagers facing the same procedure.

Casey was diagnosed with scoliosis at 10. At age 17, she had scoliosis surgery at CHOC Hospital. Today, she’s a thriving college student.

Jennifer was diagnosed with scoliosis at 8 years old. After lifestyle changes and wearing a back brace, she was able to avoid surgery.

Nikki was among the first patients at CHOC to benefit from personalized spinal implants as part of her scoliosis surgery.

Ellie’s mom thought back pain might be due to a heavy backpack, but her pediatrician diagnosed scoliosis, and referred her to CHOC.

Dr. Afshin Aminian and the CHOC Orthopaedic Institute helped correct a nearly 70 degree curve in Jessica’s spine.

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the spine is curved in either an “s” or “c” shape. If caught early, it can be treated with bracing.