The Scoliosis Experience

In this episode, we’re diving into three exciting ways AI is transforming scoliosis treatment—and why it matters for parents who want better options for their kids. You’ll learn about: How 3D printed scoliosis braces are being customized for comfort and effectiveness using AI precision The game-changing role of AI in measuring Cobb angles on X-rays—faster, more consistent, and less prone to error Why apps like the Momentum Spine app are using AI and surface topography modeling to help track spinal curves without constant radiation exposure If you're a parent navigating scoliosis treatment or worried about the next step, this episode will give you a clearer picture of what’s possible—and where the future of care is headed. Check out our Momentum Spine App video:  https://youtu.be/BS-VqdMp1bw To learn more about scoliosis treatment in Utah at Align Therapy: https://aligntherapyutah.com/scoliosis-portal/ 

If you, or your child, have been diagnosed with scoliosis, the options can feel overwhelming—and it's hard to know who to trust or what treatment path is truly best. In this episode, I’ll walk you through 5 of the biggest mistakes patients make when starting scoliosis treatment so you can avoid unnecessary stress, wasted time, and ineffective care. Whether you're trying to avoid surgery, wondering if you should "wait and see," or confused by conflicting advice—this episode will give you clarity and confidence in your next steps. Check out our Scoliosis Portal to learn more: https://aligntherapyutah.com/scoliosis-portal/

Living with scoliosis is about more than just the curve in your spine—it’s about how your whole body functions and feels. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jared Price, an expert in gut health, hormone therapy, and overall wellness, to explore the powerful connection between general health and scoliosis. Dr. Price shares what you need to know about how gut health, hormone balance, and lifestyle choices can impact scoliosis and your overall sense of well-being. We also dive into the science of motivation, why some days you feel great and others you don’t, and the simple steps you can take to feel stronger, healthier, and more in control. You can contact Dr Price by going to their website at https://uhwclinic.com/ or calling his office at (801) 477-0068.  They are located in Lehi Utah at 230 North 1200 East, Suite #202 Lehi, Utah 84043 They are also doing Telehealth consultations and treatment to help them reach more people in need of this kind of treatment.  Whether you or your child are navigating scoliosis—or you just want to feel your best—this episode is packed with insight and practical tips you can start using right away. 👉 Tune in to discover how addressing the whole body can make a real difference in managing scoliosis and living well.

If you’ve been told to just “wait and see” if your child’s scoliosis gets worse, this episode is for you. In this special recording from a recent live workshop, you'll hear directly from a scoliosis specialist at Align Therapy as we unpack why the passive approach so many parents are offered isn’t enough—and what you can do instead. We’ll dive into: What really happens during the “wait and see” period The critical window of time when early intervention makes the biggest difference Non-surgical treatment options that can help slow or stop curve progression How to take the first step—even if you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start This is the episode every parent of a child with scoliosis needs to hear. Don’t wait. Take action today to protect your child’s future mobility and confidence.

Worried about your child’s scoliosis diagnosis? You’re not alone. In this episode, I share the most common questions I get from parents during their child’s very first scoliosis visit — and the honest, practical answers you need. We’ll talk about what scoliosis really means, how to know if it’s getting worse, what treatment options look like, and how to keep your child active and healthy. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just looking for trustworthy information, this episode will help you feel informed and empowered to take the next step for your child’s spine health. Check out our scoliosis portal to learn more about how scoliosis can be treated conservatively and how you can be proactive in the treatment of your child's curve.  https://aligntherapyutah.com/scoliosis-portal/  

The role of nutrition in the treatment of scoliosis has not been studied widely. In this podcast episode, we talk with Sarah Steed who is a nutritionist, and she shares some advice and information on the role of nutrition in the treatment of all kinds of scoliosis. She discusses bone density, inflammation, general health, and other aspects of helping the treatment of scoliosis with what we put in our bodies. There is a lot of mis-information out there about nutrition, and she clarifies a few of these and give some great tips on what you can do today to improve your health. Sarah also has 2 amazing offers for the listeners of The Scoliosis Experience Podcast: 1. $75 Off a 1:1 Scoliosis Nutrition Consultation, which is normally $150. It Includes a personalized assessment + a customized meal plan. Available to the first 5 people who book a session. Discount code: Align75 or Discount Link: https://www.sarahsteed.com/30-min-menu-makeover?coupon=ALIGN75 2. Free resource Guide "Top 5 Foods to Fight Back Pain & Inflammation" https://sarahsteed.myflodesk.com/pfii9p4x8z If you are looking for some help, Sarah would be an awesome resource. Check out her offers today! Especially since the first offer is only available to the first 5. You can also check out Sarah Steed's website at https://www.sarahsteed.com/ --------------------------- Timeline: 0:00 Intro 1:07 Introduction to Sarah Steed 2:20 Sarah's own experience 4:12 Insights on spine and nutrition 6:13 Why listen to Sarah 10:00 Stress and pain 19:05 Adolescent vs Adult Scoliosis 26:08 Tips for nutrition with scoliosis 35:45 Differences with Men and Women 45:30 Sarah's Special Offers 55:00 Final thoughts --------------------------   DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this video is for general information and demonstration only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before attempting any exercises or techniques shared here. By using this content, you agree to release Align Therapy and its affiliates from any liability for losses, injuries, or damages related to any claims arising from your use or misuse of this material. Align Therapy makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy or suitability of this content. Use at your own discretion and risk.

In this episode I talk to Brad Eldredge who is a one of the amazing scoliosis specialists at Align Therapy in Lehi Utah.  He shares his journey of getting interested in physical therapy as well as learning The Schroth Method.   This episode would be a great one to listen to for someone looking to get treatment for scoliosis or other spine deformities.  He also gives tips for those diagnosed with scoliosis that would be helpful during treatment.  To learn more about our scoliosis treatment program at Align Therapy, check out our scoliosis portal: https://aligntherapyutah.com/scoliosis-portal/

In this episode, we explore the cutting-edge advancements in scoliosis treatment that are reshaping care in 2024. Join us as we dive into the latest technologies, therapies, and approaches that are helping patients manage scoliosis more effectively. From non-invasive treatments like the Schroth Method to breakthroughs in bracing and surgical techniques, we cover it all. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s posture, an adult managing scoliosis, or simply curious about the future of spine care, this episode will provide valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn how innovation is making a difference in the lives of scoliosis patients everywhere! Research discussed in this episode: Long Term Schroth Treatment: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39459424/ Spinal Flexibility Before Surgery: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39325330/ Spinal Flexibility After Surgery: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38082366/   Check out our website to learn more about scoliosis treatment: https://aligntherapyutah.com/scoliosis-portal/

In this episode, I sit down with Susan, an incredible scoliosis warrior who has undergone 17 surgeries and emerged stronger than ever. Despite facing countless challenges, Susan's positive attitude and unwavering spirit have made her an inspiration to everyone around her. She opens up about her journey through each surgery, the highs and lows, and how she found the strength to keep pushing forward. This even includes some of the largest scoliosis surgeries I have seen!  Whether you're battling scoliosis, facing a different challenge, or simply need a dose of inspiration, Susan’s story is a powerful reminder that you can find resilience and hope, no matter the odds. Tune in to hear how she turned her struggles into a story of triumph and what keeps her motivated every day. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, I talk to Evan Dimentberg, who is the co-founder of Momentum Health. Momentum Health has developed an app that can 3D image the back and create a surface topography image, all from the cameras on a regular smartphone.  (Check out momentum.health for more information) Check out a recent YouTube video showing how this app works: https://youtu.be/BS-VqdMp1bw This is a game changer in scoliosis monitoring in a few different ways.  First, scoliosis and kyphosis can be monitored without needing to step into a medical clinic because it can be done at home.  The potential is there for providers to keep tabs on their patient's scoliosis with the patient doing a scan on a regular basis at home.  Second, surface topography, if used correctly, can limit the number of x-rays children with scoliosis are getting.  If we aren't seeing changes on topography, then we can push the next x-ray back and limit their exposure.   Third, with AI modeling, this app can predict the Cobb angle better than before.  Surface Topography and X-ray will most likely never totally agree, but this is getting closer.  With more accuracy, we should be able to make better clinical decisions, along with limiting x-ray use.   Evan talks about his company, Momentum Health, and how he got started.  He also shares how the technology works and what it entails to take a scan of someone's back. This is a very non-invasive, and very comfortable process.  We also talk about how this technology could be used in the world of scoliosis treatment and how he is currently seeing it used.   This is really cool technology and I hope to utilize it myself in the near future.  

In this episode, I sit down with Hope, who shares her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with scoliosis as a teen to becoming the co-founder of "Hope's Closet." After her scoliosis progressed to the point where she needed bracing, Hope and her mother struggled to find comfortable undershirts to wear under her scoliosis brace. Their search led them to create their own solution, and "Hope's Closet" was born. Today, they provide specially designed undershirts for individuals with scoliosis who wear braces, offering comfort and support during a challenging time. Hope also opens up about her personal experience with scoliosis, including the discomfort of wearing a brace and her ongoing battle to improve her condition through the Schroth Method exercises. Her story is a testament to resilience and innovation in the face of adversity. To learn more about "Hope's Closet" and their products, visit hopescloset.com. For more information on The Schroth Method and how it can help manage scoliosis, be sure to check out our website. Tune in for an episode full of inspiration, practical advice, and insight into living with scoliosis.

In this episode, I sit down with Will, a brave young man navigating life with scoliosis, who recently underwent surgery for a Chiari malformation to help address the cause of his curve. Will opens up about his journey, from being diagnosed with scoliosis to wearing a brace and now focusing on healing post-surgery. Joining us is Will's dad, who shares his perspective as a parent, offering insights into the emotional and practical challenges families face when supporting a child through scoliosis and complex medical procedures. Together, we explore the ups and downs of Will’s recovery, the ongoing process of managing scoliosis, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward. This episode provides a candid look into the realities of living with scoliosis and the importance of a supportive family network. For more information about scoliosis, treatment options, and resources, visit our website. Don't miss out on valuable insights that could help you or a loved one navigate similar challenges.

In this episode, I talk to Dr Michael Gardner from Stanford about some awesome new options for treatment.  Historically, conservative treatment for scoliosis has been limited by distance, training, and referral.  Dr Gardner is looking to help those with scoliosis navigate those challenges and get the care they need.  He and his colleagues have developed a way for those with scoliosis to receive conservative treatment online.  They have even developed a way to scan the back and produce a 3D image of the back to aide treatment.   Check out this episode if you have scoliosis and are looking for conservative treatment.  Maybe you have felt let down with your options, or you don't have anyone in your area that does Schroth or other scoliosis specific exercise.  This would be a great place to start.  Check out his website at: https://nationalscoliosisclinic.com/

In this episode we discuss scoliosis bracing with Adam Waugh, CPO.  Adam is an orthotist who works for Goal Pediatric Orthotics here in Utah.  He has been a great resource for bracing, and he has a great philosophy of how to get the best results possible.   Check out this episode if you are looking at doing scoliosis bracing, or if you are braced.  He gives some tips and tricks on how to get the best results, as well as some insights into how providers can improve our treatment as well.  We are excited to have him as part of our multidisciplinary team, and will be using him for scoliosis bracing in the future.  To find out more about Goal Pediatric Orthotics, check out their website: https://www.goalpediatrics.com/

In this episode, I go over a recent research article looking at what the trends are with Google Searches related to scoliosis treatment.  This might seem like it doesn't apply to what we do, but it was fascinating to see what the trends are on Google for Scoliosis Treatment.  One thing this brought to light was the terms "Chiropractic Manipulation" and "Schroth Method Exercises" are both trending upward in search terms.  I am glad people are searching for treatments and trying to educate themselves.  The problem is, while there is growing and good evidence to support Schroth Method Exercises, there is only very weak evidence to support Chiropractic Manipulation for the treatment of scoliosis.   This is a problem where people are searching for Chiropractic Manipulation for scoliosis and trusting the sources they find on Google, but that treatment method doesn't have support in the literature.  It is concerning that people might be doing treatments they think are effective that aren't.   In contrast, the growing evidence for Schroth Method Exercises is on an upward trend as well as searches for this.  This is a good thing and I hope people will continue to search for that and grow that Google Trend.  The truth with Google is that if more people search for a term, they bring that up in search results more often.   If you have questions regarding this research study, check out the PubMed link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37288184/

One of the things that sets Align Therapy apart is the specialized training we receive on Scoliosis Specific Exercise.  All of our therapists are trained in The Schroth Method now that Char and Janessa received training this last year.   In this episode they talk about how they were trained to treat patients before and after scoliosis certification.  They talk about their experience with current patients and how they feel this training has benefitted their practice.  Janessa and Char are amazing therapists that have helped many patients with spinal deformities, including scoliosis and kyphosis, improve and live lives with less pain and less imbalance.  They are experienced in all kinds of scoliosis and kyphosis and would be great for any patient to work with.  To contact them, you can email or call the clinic (801-980-0860) janessa@aligntherapyutah.com char@aligntherapyutah.com 

In this episode, I talk to Gary Huntington who is one of the few Schroth Method physical therapists in Utah.  He is located in St George, Utah and has been treating scoliosis and other spine patients there for 10 years.  He shares his experience and introduction to scoliosis and why he loves treating this condition.  He also shares some exciting news that he will be opening a scoliosis specific clinic in Southern Utah in St George, and is really excited to start treating patients with more of a multidisciplinary approach.  One of the struggles with scoliosis specific exercise, is the lack of support from the other members of the scoliosis team.  Many times we struggle to get the support or buy in of the surgeons and orthopedic doctors, even though this treatment has been found to be effective.   Being able to work more with all disciplines within the scoliosis treatment realm will be a huge benefit from him as he branches out in his own clinic.   To reach out to Gary, you can email him at gary@aligntherapyutah.com.  You can also check out the St George page on our website at: https://aligntherapyutah.com/contact-information-physical-therapy-services-in-st-george-utah/ 

Kyra Condie is a professional rock climber who had a spinal fusion as a teen to stop a rapidly progressing scoliosis curve.  On this episode, Kyra discusses what it was like to have scoliosis progress to needing surgery when her climbing career was starting to take off.  Fast forward to the Tokyo Olympics and Kyra is the first athlete to compete in the Olympic Games with a spinal fusion.   She shares a great story about the first surgeon she went to telling her that climbing wasn't going to be a big part of her life, so she should just not worry about it.  She ended up having a second opinion from a surgeon who took her goals into account when doing the surgery.   One of the huge takeaways from this episode is to advocate for yourself...even if you are a teenager discussing with your parents.  If you are looking at surgery for scoliosis, Kyra also recommends getting a second, and maybe even a third, opinion.   You can find out more about Kyra's journey and story by following her on Instagram: @Kyra_condie or on her website: www.kyracondie.com Kyra continues to do some awesome things in climbing, so watch for her on the world stage.  She was also such a cool person to get to know on this podcast.  Thanks Kyra! 

This month we did a workshop on Scoliosis and Spine on YouTube Live with 3 specific things you can do to reduce back pain and improve posture.   Check out the Video HERE We discuss many things with scoliosis and spine treatment along with some specific things you can do to relieve your back pain and improve your posture.  Below you will find the supplies you will need to help you do them.  Upright Go 2 - https://amzn.to/3J1Sj89 KT Tape - https://amzn.to/3FeiwPz  

Each month we do a scoliosis workshop in the second week of the month.  This month we discuss many topics related to scoliosis, including how to determine what the best treatment is for you.  We also talk about scoliosis specific exercise and bracing.  This was also on YouTube live, and you can check it out below.  https://youtu.be/Gi7_OlihSeU