National Scoliosis Center

05/27/2026

The perfect "fit" involves more than just a measurement—it involves a lot of heart. 🧸💚

First, Jillian stopped by with a special delivery: a crew of Higgy Bears to donate to our newer patients! These cuddly companions help kids realize they aren’t alone on their scoliosis journey, and Jillian’s mission to give "back" is truly inspiring.

But that’s not all! As Jillian grows, her brace needs to grow too. Swipe to see her official "graduation" from her old brace to her brand-new brace pattern! Our patients love being able to choose their pattern 🎨✨

At National Scoliosis Center, we utilize growth-guided correction to ensure every patient has the best possible outcome. Jillian is proof that with the right support (and a stylish new look!), there’s nothing you can’t do.

Thank you, Jillian, for being a light in our NSC family! 🌟

05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

At National Scoliosis Center, we are profoundly grateful for their courage and the freedom their legacy provides. We wish our patients, their families, and our entire community a peaceful and meaningful Memorial Day.

Our offices are closed today as our team spends time with their families. We look forward to seeing you when we resume normal hours tomorrow.

05/22/2026

"But what can I wear with my brace this summer?" ☀️

It’s the most common question we get when an almost-12-year-old like Sloane is diagnosed. The answer? Anything you want!

Learning to style a brace takes practice, but it shouldn't stop you from looking great. Sloane is showing us how to keep it comfortable, breezy, and cute while wearing her Rigo Cheneau brace. 🦋

Sloane’s Summer Brace-Style Tips:

👗 Flowy Dresses: Your best friend! Maxi and midi dresses with a flowy skirt are the easiest way to wear your brace. If you prefer to wear the brace over your clothes, a loose dress provides effortless coverage.

🦋 Butterfly Shorts: These are a fantastic option! They are loose around the legs, comfortable, and perfect for warm weather (and Sloane wears them wonderfully!).

👕 Summer Tops & High-Waisted Shorts: Want to rock a shorter top? Pair a loose, light cotton tee with high-waisted linen or athletic shorts. The shorts provide comfort, and the loose top ensures you stay cool.

The best accessory is confidence. Thanks for the fashion inspo, Sloane!

Tag a fellow scoliosis warrior who needs some summer style tips! 👇

05/20/2026

🦓 May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Awareness Month!
Did you know that certain underlying conditions can alert doctors to an increased possibility of scoliosis developing in young children? This is known as syndromic scoliosis.

Some of the most common syndromes associated with this type of scoliosis are those that affect connective tissues, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Because connective tissue supports the spine, EDS can directly impact spinal alignment.

The severity of the curves varies greatly based on each individual, which is why early detection, regular screenings, and specialized care are so vital. At National Scoliosis Center, we are proud to provide custom care and bracing tailored to the unique needs of our EDS warriors.

Does your child have EDS? Regular spinal screenings are a key part of their healthcare routine. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your family's journey. 💚

The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of heritable connective tissue disorders. Connective tissue is found throughout the body and provides support, protection, and structure to organs, joints, skin, and blood vessels.⁠
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Each type of EDS has its own set of features with distinct diagnostic criteria. Some features are seen across all types of EDS, including joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility.⁠
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Other features are only seen in certain types of EDS and may affect different areas of the body, such as the eyes, mouth, and spine. Some types of EDS are associated with fragility of the major blood vessels or organs, which may lead to life-threatening complications.⁠
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The current classification [2017] includes 13 types of EDS [shown in the image]. Since the 2017 classification, researchers have identified additional genetic variants that cause symptoms similar to those seen in the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. These variants may represent new types of EDS or may fall under one of the current types of EDS.⁠
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When talking about EDS, it’s important to mention the specific type whenever possible, because each type can have different symptoms, complications, risks, and care needs. Using the correct type helps raise awareness accurately, improves understanding of the lived experience of that condition, and avoids generalizing a single “EDS experience” across all types.⁠
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Learn more about the types of EDS at https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/types/
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05/19/2026

We often talk about "in-brace" correction, but the ultimate goal is what happens when the brace comes off for at least 24 hours.

We are thrilled that twelve-year-old Sloane’s curve is holding steady at 20 degrees, placing her clearly in the mild range. At National Scoliosis Center, we look beyond the number. Our goal with the custom-fitted Rigo Cheneau brace is to provide precise 3D correction that holds the curve steady as the child grows, allowing them to maintain stability and active lives.

A "mild and holding" result, combined with such balanced alignment, is exactly why we emphasize early, expert intervention!

05/15/2026

🌍 Global Innovation for Our Patients: SOSORT 2026

Our team recently took the world stage at the Sosort - Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment International Congress in Turin, Italy!

To provide the best care in Fairfax, Baltimore, and Houston, we stay at the heart of global research. Our team played a vital role in shaping the future of non-surgical care:

Dr. Sabrina Donzelli presented our latest research on growth modulation and concluded her impactful term as SOSORT President.

Kristian Christensen, CPO, shared expertise on correcting thoraco-lumbar curves and led interactive workshops on complex case management.

Hope Amador, CPO, served as the Chair of the SOSORT Communication Committee and acted as the primary emcee for the Congress.

Luke Stikeleather, CO, collaborated with international pioneers to ensure our patients receive the most advanced, evidence-based custom 3D bracing available.

We are proud to bring these research-backed techniques home to empower our patients on every step of their journey. 📈

Read more at https://loom.ly/uZWYqB4

05/14/2026

✨ Success Story Alert: Congratulations, Lyla! ✨
From 11 years old to 14 and officially done with bracing!

Lyla recently reached skeletal maturity (the end of her growth phase), and the results are nothing short of incredible. When we say the "X-rays speak for themselves," we mean it—take a look! 📸

Achieving a result like this isn't magic; it’s the "Golden Trio" of scoliosis care:

A Proper Fit: A custom-designed, highly specific brace.

Growth: Leveraging those adolescent growth spurts to guide the spine.

Compliance: Lyla’s dedication and hard work every single day.

Lyla, your perseverance has paid off, and we couldn't be prouder to have been part of your journey. Cheers to a bright, brace-free future!

Do you have questions about the bracing process or skeletal maturity? Drop them in the comments! 👇

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day! 💚💐

At National Scoliosis Center, we see firsthand the dedication of the "Scoli-Moms" in our community. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, managing bracing schedules, or providing that extra bit of encouragement during a long day, you are the backbone of your child’s journey.

Today, we celebrate you. Thank you for your resilience and for trusting us to be a part of your family’s care. Enjoy your well-deserved day! 💐✨

05/06/2026

To the Heart of Our Patient Care 💙🩺

This National Nurses Week, we want to share a special thank you to the incredible nurses who support our patients throughout their scoliosis journeys. From the first bracing appointment to the ongoing check-ups, your compassion, clinical expertise, and unwavering support make all the difference in our patients' lives and spinal health.

We are so grateful for your dedication. Thanks for all you do!

04/29/2026

Today we’re sharing a bit of sunshine from one of our youngest warriors. At just six years old, this sweet girl is navigating a journey that includes Cerebral Palsy and neuromuscular scoliosis. Because CP can cause low muscle tone, supporting her spine requires a very specific approach.

She is currently in her fourth brace, and her resilience is nothing short of inspiring! Her family recently shared how much they appreciate the personalized care from Luke Stikeleather (Founder and Chief Orthotist of NSC) and our entire team. For us, it’s about more than just the brace; it’s about ensuring she is comfortable, supported, and able to keep being the amazing kid she is.

Neuromuscular scoliosis presents unique challenges, but with the right care team and a custom-fit approach, we can make a world of difference. Thank you to this wonderful family for trusting us with your daughter’s care. 💚