Creating greater understanding of complex medical conditions

Idiopathic Scoliosis

Tenner J. Guillaume, Walter H. Truong, Danielle Harding, Michaela Hingtgen, and the VanGoethem Family

Idiopathic scoliosis is a condition in which, for no known reason, there is an atypical three-dimensional curvature and rotation of the spine. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis. For the large majority of people with this condition, no specific intervention is needed. For others, treatment such as bracing or surgery is needed to effectively manage the condition. While diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, individuals with idiopathic scoliosis can expect to lead typical lives. This practical guide explains idiopathic scoliosis and the evidence based, best-practice treatments. It also includes the lived experience of families.

The writing of Idiopathic Scoliosis was led by Tenner J. Guillaume, MD, Walter H. Truong, MD, and Danielle Harding, PA-C, spine specialists at Gillette Children’s, a world-renowned center of excellence for the treatment of brain, bone, and movement conditions. Idiopathic Scoliosis is part of the Gillette Children’s Healthcare Series, a series of books for families who are looking for clear, comprehensive information. Health care professionals, researchers, educators, students, and extended family members will also benefit from reading Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Authors

Tenner J. Guillaume, MD

Walter H. Truong, MD

Danielle Harding, PA-C

Michaela Hingtgen, MS

The VanGoethem family

Editors

Lily Collison MA, MSc

Elizabeth Boyer, PhD

Tom F. Novacheck MD

What people are saying

“An infinitely readable and well-researched book not only for patients and their families but also for health care providers at all levels.” 

BENJAMIN D. ROYE, MD-MPH
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York; Richard T. Arkwright–St. Giles Foundation Associate Professor, Orthopedic Surgery, Columbia University, US

“Our daughter was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis right before she started kindergarten, and we were so worried. We wish we had this book during that time as it answers so many questions.” 

AMBER MARLATT
Parent of daughter with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis, US

“As up-to-date and inclusive as a textbook written for medical professionals while being as easily readable as a novel for children with scoliosis and their families. An indispensable source of comfort for all scoliosis patients.” 

MUHARREM YAZICI, MD
Professor of Orthopaedics Children’s Orthopaedics and Spine Center, Ankara, Turkey; Past President European Pediatric Orthopedic Society; Past President Scoliosis Research Society

“Written by experts at Gillette Children’s, Idiopathic Scoliosis is both a source of information and psychological support for families and patients with scoliosis. The information in the book is comprehensive and clear, but most important and enjoyable are the clinical stories of patients and families who have benefited from the expertise of the spine experts at Gillette Children’s. Readers are provided with an objective picture of the pathology and its treatment without false illusions or easy enthusiasm. The clear drawings help readers understand even the most technical and complex aspects of idiopathic scoliosis, supported by up-to-date references. The book is a must-read!”

FEDERICO CANAVESE
Head, Orthopedic and Traumatology Department, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa; Professor of Pediatric Orthopedics, University of Genoa, Italy

“This easy-to-read book will be an invaluable resource for parents who are new to dealing with a child or adolescent who has been diagnosed with scoliosis and who need comprehensive and validated information about the condition and treatment options. I wish this book had been available when I was faced with my teenage daughter being diagnosed with scoliosis.”

EILISH MCLOUGHLIN
Parent of daughter with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, UK

“This book, Idiopathic Scoliosis, is a comprehensive, well-structured, easily readable resource. The information is presented in a very straightforward, logical, and understandable manner, and it is well referenced and accompanied by helpful photographs and diagrams. The input from actual patients and families provides a very personal perspective of the scoliosis journey.”

BRIAN SMITH
L.E. Simmons Chief of Orthopaedics, Texas Children’s Hospital; Professor of Orthopaedics, Baylor College of Medicine, US

“The expert staff from Gillette Children’s have done a remarkable job in creating a comprehensive review for families of children with idiopathic scoliosis. Family journeys are interwoven with an up-to-date review of the causes of scoliosis and modern treatment options. Discussion of nonsurgical and surgical treatments are balanced, allowing families to better prepare for discussions with their care team. Unique to this book is guidance on how best to transition to care when patients age out of pediatric health care.”

SUMEET GARG
Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon, Children’s Hospital Colorado; Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, US

“This book is one of the best resources available for patients and families to understand scoliosis and its treatment, both nonsurgical and surgical. The real-life stories of patients and families allow newly diagnosed scoliosis patients to understand the condition and its treatment and—more importantly—to let them know they are not alone. It covers the entire treatment landscape, with the latest techniques supported by the most recent published scientific data. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is affected by scoliosis and wants to educate themselves with the most complete resource in an easy-to-read format.”

ROBERT H. CHO
Chief of Staff, Shriners Children’s Southern California, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, Pediatric Spine Surgeon, UCLA Clinical Assistant Professor, US

“The visuals and organization are very helpful in understanding signs, symptoms, and possible treatment plans of scoliosis. As a patient, I found the inclusion of personal narratives throughout the book comforted me about the diagnosis and the care I would be provided with.”

ISABELLA VERMEDAHL
Adult with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, US

“This comprehensive book on idiopathic scoliosis for parents of children with the condition is a gem for its clarity in explaining complex medical concepts in accessible language. It clearly lays out the chronological progression of scoliosis treatment, guiding parents through each step with precision and care. The accuracy of the information presented instills confidence in readers, making it a trusted resource for understanding and managing scoliosis effectively. This book is a must-have for parents seeking reliable information and support on navigating the challenges of scoliosis.”

DAVID P. MOORE
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Children’s Health Ireland

“The spine team at Gillette has done a nice job of putting together a comprehensive but accessible book on idiopathic scoliosis. The patient story is an excellent companion to the clinical information in the book. The pictures and diagrams are helpful and easy to understand. A great read!”

KEITH D. BALDWIN
Director of Orthopedic Trauma, Associate Professor, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, US

“This unique resource provides not only information about the treatment of scoliosis but also the perspective of the patient and parent. Getting a diagnosis of scoliosis can often seem daunting. Yet as providers treating this condition, we see that even in severe cases where a spinal fusion is ultimately needed, patients typically return to full sports and activities. This book will be a welcome companion to many as they embark on their scoliosis journey.”

LINDSAY M. ANDRAS
Director of Spine and Vice Chief of Orthopedics, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, US

Email Lina Abdennabi, Press Coordinator:

linaiabdennabi@gillettechildrens.com
Gillette Childrens Healthcare Press Contact Form