Obviously, the sooner scoliosis is diagnosed and the sooner active care is implemented, the greater the chance for a favorable outcome. Current research shows that it is beneficial to proceed to a rehabilitative phase of care as rapidly as possible, and to minimize dependency upon passive forms of treatment. Prolonged periods of inactivity are related to increased risk of failure. This may be why some patients that go through bracing protocols eventually need surgery. Studies indicate that low-tech rehabilitation protocols produced significant improvements with the longest periods of relief. It is a more cost effective approach to management of this condition.
The following case study demonstrates the value of early activation and transition from Phase II to Phase III rehabilitation. It further demonstrates the necessity of functional evaluation so as to determine the appropriate protocol of rehabilitative treatment. Finally, it demonstrates the achievability of the long-term functional outcomes that are demanded by patients and carriers alike