Dr. Lisa Yoon Presents at the 11th Annual Pediatric Spine Symposium

Dr. Lisa Yoon, an accomplished member of our faculty, recently presented at the 11th Annual Best-in-Class Symposium on the Non-operative Treatment for Scoliosis, hosted by Columbia Pediatric Orthopedics. We connected with Dr. Yoon to learn more about her presentation and reflections from the event.

Overview:

Could you provide a brief summary of your presentation on optimizing non-operative care for patients with neuromuscular scoliosis?

The title was, “Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Key Considerations for the Scoliosis Specialist” focusing on the evaluation and treatment of people with cerebral palsy (CP) with scoliosis.

What made this topic relevant for attendees at the symposium? 

This is a yearly conference for professionals (physicians, surgeons, nurse practitioners, therapists, orthotists, mental health professionals and care coordinators) involved in the care of people with scoliosis. Physical therapy remains an important aspect of management for patients both preoperatively, postoperatively or as a part of a multidisciplinary care in people with  scoliosis.

Insights:

What were the most important findings or insights that you shared in your presentation? 

 Scoliosis is a secondary diagnosis in people with CP that requires a holistic approach to treatment. Unlike scoliosis in a non-neurological population, the goal of conservative treatment is not to reduce the angle of the scoliotic curve; rather, it is to slow the progression of the curve and/or reduce its impact on their function. However, similar to the overarching focus of conservative treatment in all patients with scoliosis is to improve pain, posture, and coordination of breathing with movement.

Did you introduce new techniques, or research that could improve patient outcomes?  

I highlighted several important points:  

• a framework that includes the infra pelvic factors contributing to scoliosis
• postural management strategies important for functional activities and daily management
• a multidisciplinary approach with medical professionals (i.e., MD, NP, PT, orthotist, assistive technology specialists and care coordinators)

Benefits:

How do you think these non-operative care strategies can impact the treatment of neuromuscular scoliosis? 

By taking a holistic and functional approach, patients can optimize their posture and function and decrease pain. Non-operative care strategies are important even if the eventual plan includes surgery. A patient who is stronger, has better body awareness, alignment and motor control pre-surgically can positively impact post-surgical outcomes.

Audience:

Any feedback or reactions from the symposium attendees that stood out to you?

Attendees appreciated a new framework to evaluate and treat patients w neuromuscular scoliosis. They also appreciated hearing from a physical therapist who specializes in care of people with CP that they can consult with or refer their patients to for care.

Questions or conversations after the symposium that you found meaningful? 

Attendees were intrigued and grateful for the information as people with neuromuscular scoliosis occasionally seek care from Schroth certified therapists. However, many had little experience with this population. They were also interested to hear more about the Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center as a resource for their patients with CP.