Pediatric Scoliosis & Spine Care
- About Us
- Our Care
- What to Expect
Trusted Expertise in Spinal Care for Kids & Teens
When your child has scoliosis (spine curvature) or another spinal condition, you want answers, options and most importantly, hope. Nemours Children’s orthopedic spine specialists listen to your needs and goals, and help you make the best decisions for your child and family. We’re experts in not only correcting spine curvatures — we give kids the strength and resilience to soar.
Our legacy of excellence spans decades, with spine specialists treating more than 5,000 kids every year. We’re part of recognized, top-ranked pediatric orthopedic centers in Delaware and Florida. We have special expertise in caring for idiopathic scoliosis and complex and rare spinal conditions, including cervical (neck area) problems, neuromuscular scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, and more. Our team researches and pioneers nonsurgical and surgical spine treatments, and offers a level of care not found everywhere, like motion preserving and growth friendly options.
Families come here because we’re innovators. We lead the way, improving spine care, and sharing our expertise with peers. We teach tomorrow’s orthopedic spine specialists and set the standard of care for kids everywhere. In fact, other surgeons routinely visit our center to learn how to advance care in their region.
Beyond clinical expertise, we’re simply compassionate professionals who know how spine conditions are unique to every child. We care for your whole child, and family. This means supporting both physical health and emotional well-being today, and as your child grows.
Two Leading Pediatric Orthopedic Centers
Nemours provides advanced care for newborns, children, teens, and young adults with the full range of orthopedic conditions, including complex spine disorders, neuromuscular conditions, sports injuries, and rare disorders affecting bone growth. Learn more about our extensive care and research.
When surgery day finally came, I was very excited! This surgery ended up being the best decision I have ever made.”
“It’s wonderful to be taken care of as a Nemours patient. I would encourage anyone to trust and be a part of the care they give.”
“Every visit we are well informed and well aware of the treatment plans. Dr. Lovejoy and his team are an amazing group of specialists.”
“I don’t know where Alex would be without Dr. Loveless. We really got lucky when we found Nemours.”
“With the help of Dr. Shah and Nemours Children’s, Natalie overcame her scoliosis and continues to live her best life.”
- Alexis’
- Esther’s
- Kalani’s
- Alex’s
- Natalie’s
Florida’s Top-Ranked Orthopedic Spine Care for Kids
Our Florida spine specialists are national leaders in nonoperative scoliosis and spine care. We see many kids with highly complex spine conditions. We provide everything you need to make the best possible care decisions.
Top 5
National U.S. News & World Report ranking (2024-2025)
3,000+
Kids treated for spine conditions each year
5
Doctors on our team with scoliosis expertise in Florida
We’re pioneers in nonoperative spine care. We’re highly skilled in several innovative bracing and casting techniques.
When spine surgery is needed, our orthopedic spine surgeons use minimally invasive methods when possible, for a faster recovery.
We offer advanced EOS imaging with low dose radiation and 3D modeling. This means safer long-term monitoring and more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
Nemours is researching scoliosis and spinal conditions in children, developing treatments that help kids thrive.
Nemours Spine & Scoliosis Program in Florida
The Nemours Spine & Scoliosis Program in Florida is made up of pediatric spine specialists who care for the full range of spine conditions in children. Here, your family gets the highest level of care, and all the services your child needs, in one place.
With a pediatric orthopedics program ranked among the best by U.S. News & World Report (2024-2025), we’re dedicated to improving the lives of children through active research and clinical trials. We share what we know, so that kids everywhere can benefit from our expertise.
We provide an array of innovative scoliosis and spine services, including nonsurgical treatments and complex spine surgery, at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida in Orlando and Nemours Children’s Health locations in Jacksonville and Pensacola. We also offer convenient follow-up appointments throughout the state, as well as online video visits for your convenience.
Our Leadership
John F. Lovejoy III, MD
Chair of Orthopedic and Sports Medicine
Orlando, Florida
Dr. Lovejoy serves as the Chair of Orthopedic Education for the University of Central Florida College of Medicine where he is a professor of Orthopedic Surgery. In addition, he serves as faculty for the HCA Florida Ocala Hospital Orthopedic Residency program and is the Fellowship Director for Nemours Orthopedic Fellowship program in Orlando. He is actively in engaged in several key areas of research including spinal deformity, sports medicine, and trauma. He has published multiple articles, authored several book chapters, and has served as a reviewer for several orthopedic journals.
Meet Our Pediatric Scoliosis & Spine Team in Florida <<NEED LIST
Our specialists are at the forefront of their fields. They work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for children and teens with spine conditions.
Delaware’s Top-Ranked Orthopedic Spine Care for Kids
In Delaware Valley, we have one of the oldest and most respected pediatric orthopedic programs in the country. We see more kids with complex spinal conditions than nearly anyone else.
Top 10
National U.S. News & World Report ranking (2024-2025)
5,000+
Kids treated for spine conditions each year
5
Doctors on our team with scoliosis expertise
We’re innovators in nonoperative spine care. In fact, we invented the customizable Wilmington brace that’s widely used across the country.
Our orthopedic spine surgeons use minimally invasive methods when possible. We’re one of a few hospitals nationwide to use video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) anterior spine fusion and vertebral body tethering (VBT).
Our team comprises the leadership of national organizations that set the standard of care, like Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation, Scoliosis Research Society, and the Pediatric Spine Foundation.
We’re experts in managing pain, scars and fears. We use plastic surgery techniques that promote healing, recovery, and self-esteem.
Nemours Spine & Scoliosis Center in the Delaware Valley
The Spine & Scoliosis Center in the Delaware Valley is led by pediatric specialists who have devoted their entire careers to treating spine conditions in children. Our team regularly cares for the most rare and complex spine disorders. When you come here, you can trust you’re getting deep expertise and experience.
As a center of excellence ranked in the top 10 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2024-2025), we’re constantly researching and seeking the best, most effective and safe treatments for children. We share what we know, helping kids everywhere get the best possible care.
We developed and popularized enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols and advanced pain management without extensive use of opioids, which could lead to addiction and misuse of these medications in the future. This contemporary approach to pain management leads to faster recoveries, less side effects, and better patient satisfaction than the older approach. Parents love our opioid avoidance methods when treating their children.
We provide an array of innovative nonsurgical and surgical spine treatments at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware in Wilmington and Nemours Children’s Health locations throughout the Delaware Valley and Greater Philadelphia region. We also offer follow-up online video visits for your convenience.
Our Leadership
Suken A. Shah, MD
Shands/MacEwen Chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division Chief of the Nemours Spine and Scoliosis Center
Dr. Shah serves as Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Pediatrics at Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. As a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware for more than 20 years, he is an innovator, researcher, and key opinion leader in the field of spinal deformity surgery, with more than 275 research publications, 11,000 citations, 35 book chapters, and several patents.
Dr. Shah also serves as President of the Scoliosis Research Society, President of Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation, and is a member of the Medical and Scientific Board of the National Spine Health Foundation.
Meet Our Pediatric Scoliosis & Spine Team in Delaware Valley
Our specialists are at the forefront of their fields. They work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for children and teens with spine conditions.
Top-Ranked Orthopedic Spine Care for Kids
Nemours has one of the oldest and most respected pediatric orthopedic programs in the country. We see more kids with complex spinal conditions than nearly anyone else.
Top 2
Two top ranked orthopedics programs by U.S. News & World Report (2024-2025)
5,000+
Kids treated for spine conditions each year
5
Doctors on our team with scoliosis expertise
We’re innovators in nonoperative spine care. In fact, we invented the customizable Wilmington brace that’s widely used across the country.
Our orthopedic spine surgeons use minimally invasive methods when possible. Our hosptial in Delaware is one of a few nationwide to use video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) anterior spine fusion and vertebral body tethering (VBT).
We’re researching scoliosis and spinal conditions in children, developing treatments and sharing what we know so kids everywhere can benefit.
We’re experts in managing pain, scars, and fears. We use plastic surgery techniques that promote healing, recovery and self-esteem.
Nemours Spine & Scoliosis Care Near You
Nemours provides expert scoliosis and spine care and surgery for kids in Delaware Valley and Florida. In both regions, our orthopedics care is top ranked by U.S. News & World Report (2024-2025). As a team, we’re constantly researching and seeking the best, most effective and safe treatments for children. We share our expertise so that kids everywhere can benefit.
Our Spine & Scoliosis Center in the Delaware Valley is led by pediatric specialists who have devoted their entire careers to treating spine conditions in children. We provide an array of innovative nonsurgical and surgical spine care, at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware in Wilmington and Nemours Children’s Health locations throughout the Delaware Valley and Greater Philadelphia region.
In Florida, our Scoliosis & Spine Program is nationally recognized. We provide advanced nonsurgical treatments and spine surgery, at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida in Orlando and Nemours Children’s Health locations in Jacksonville and Pensacola.
We also offer follow-up online video visits for your convenience.
Our Leadership
Suken A. Shah, MD
Shands/MacEwen Chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division Chief of the Nemours Spine and Scoliosis Center
Dr. Shah serves as Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Pediatrics at Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. As a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware for more than 20 years, he is an innovator, researcher, and key opinion leader in the field of spinal deformity surgery, with more than 275 research publications, 11,000 citations, 35 book chapters, and several patents.
Dr. Shah also serves as President of the Scoliosis Research Society, President of Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation, and is a member of the Medical and Scientific Board of the National Spine Health Foundation.
John F. Lovejoy III, MD
Chair of Orthopedic and Sports Medicine
Orlando, Florida
Dr. Lovejoy serves as the Chair of Orthopedic Education for the University of Central Florida College of Medicine where he is a professor of Orthopedic Surgery. In addition, he serves as faculty for the HCA Florida Ocala Hospital Orthopedic Residency program and is the Fellowship Director for Nemours Orthopedic Fellowship program in Orlando. He is actively in engaged in several key areas of research including spinal deformity, sports medicine, and trauma. He has published multiple articles, authored several book chapters, and has served as a reviewer for several orthopedic journals.
Meet Our Nemours Pediatric Scoliosis & Spine Team <<ADD FL LIST WHEN RECEIVED
Our specialists are at the forefront of their fields. They work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for children and teens with spine conditions.
Programs & Services
Nemours spine specialists know that spinal conditions can affect every child differently. Some kids may have visible curves that affect their self-image, while others may have physical limitations that impact daily activities.
We offer complete care, from nonoperative spine treatments to the most advanced, minimally invasive spine surgery available. We personalize treatment plans to your child’s unique condition and your family’s goals. We give you all the options and information you need to make the best care decisions for your child.
Highlights of our care include:
- Innovative spine surgery, like robotic-guided navigation, minimally invasive approaches and the latest techniques like VBT, magnetic expansion control growing rods, and complex reconstruction.
- The safest spine surgery protocols to prevent infection, neurologic problems, blood transfusion, and other complications before they happen so you can be assured of the best outcomes.
- Nonsurgical orthopedic treatments, including innovative spine bracing, spine-specific physical therapy, and more.
- Advanced imaging, including state-of-the-art low dose, 3D EOS imaging, CT, and MRI.
- Perinatal and fetal diagnosis and treatment planning before your child is born.
- Genetic testing if needed to identify underlying causes of congenital (present at birth) limb differences.
- Gait and motion analysis testing in Delaware, providing the gold standard for the most precise diagnostics, surgical planning, and orthotics/prosthetics design.
- Collaboration with experts with specialized expertise in adolescent scoliosis, early onset scoliosis, skeletal dysplasia, neuromuscular scoliosis, sports injuries, and more.
- Full array of services from nutrition counseling to child psychology, to orthotics, and prosthetics teams on-site at our children’s hospitals.
- Support services from a whole team for coping, resources, financial assistance, and more.
- Ronald McDonald Houses nearby for budget-friendly family lodging.
- Services for international families, including assistance with planning and travel, language and cultural support, and more.
Conditions & Treatments
We see many types of scoliosis and spinal conditions — far too many to list here. The conditions we treat vary depending on the location and providers selected. Don’t see a condition listed? Call us.
Related Specialties & Programs
Care for International Families
Find out how the Nemours International Medicine Program helps children — no matter where they live — have a healthier and happier future. We’ve cared for hundreds of patients from around the world, in nearly every pediatric specialty. You can count on our expert care and reliable interpreter services. We can assist with housing, transportation and other services too.
Care That Goes Beyond Medicine
At Nemours, our care for children and families goes well beyond medicine. We offer an array of support services and programs aimed at building strength physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. We help your whole family from the start and stay with you throughout the journey.
Care for International Families
Families from across the globe choose Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware for care and surgery not available at home. Our team understands your unique needs and works hard to remove barriers so your child can get the right care, right here.
We help with everything, from connecting you to local accommodations, places of worship and interpretation services, to coordinating follow-up care in your own country. We partner with your family and providers to provide the best possible outcomes, no matter where you call home.
Care That Goes Beyond Medicine
At Nemours, our care for children and families goes well beyond medicine. We offer an array of support services and programs aimed at building strength physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. We help your whole family from the start and stay with you throughout the journey.
Care for International Families
Find out how the Nemours International Medicine Program helps children — no matter where they live — have a healthier and happier future. We’ve cared for hundreds of patients from around the world, in nearly every pediatric specialty. You can count on our expert care and reliable interpreter services. We can assist with housing, transportation and other services too.
Care That Goes Beyond Medicine
When your family comes to Nemours, you’re well cared for. We want you to understand your child’s condition and how to help them stay healthy and succeed. We help you find community resources for your family. We also offer many supportive services, like social work, lodging at nearby Ronald McDonald Houses, creative therapies, pet therapy, Child Life programs and much more.
Convenient Follow-Up Appointments by Video
We offer follow-up appointments through scheduled, live video visits. You can avoid waiting rooms and save travel time. Ask your doctor if this is an option for your family.
Understanding Spine Treatments & Therapies for Kids
Knowing scoliosis and spine treatment options can help you feel confident in your child’s care journey. Nemours spine specialists carefully evaluate your child’s condition and recommend the most effective, least invasive treatment.
It’s important to know that spine surgery isn’t always the answer, and your child may need different treatments as they grow. While our team will explain everything to your family, we put together some general information for you here.
We offer many highly advanced and innovative nonsurgical spine treatments. You child’s care may include:
Careful watching may be the first step we take in your child’s spine care, especially with mild spine problems.
During this phase we monitor your child’s condition and assess progressing symptoms. This will help us minimize unneeded treatment and catch any changes early, when they’re most treatable. You can expect us to:
- Schedule regular check-ups, typically every 4-6 months.
- Measure any changes with low-dose X-ray imaging.
- Track your child’s physical development and growth.
- Assess movement, balance, and posture
- Address new symptoms or concerns.
- Plan treatments as needed.
Bracing may be the only treatment needed for certain pediatric spine conditions. Modern braces are designed for comfort and effectiveness.
There are many different brace types. The spine brace we choose is based on a child’s condition, its severity and part of the spine affected. We also consider the child’s age and lifestyle, bone maturity, remaining growth, and family preferences.
We use the latest bracing types, including custom-molded thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO), Wilmington brace, Providence nighttime brace, Charleston bending brace, Rigo Cheneau style braces, and others. With bracing, you can generally expect:
- Custom fitting and regular adjustments at our onsite orthotics labs.
- Specific wearing schedule (nighttime, part-time, 16-20 hours).
- Regular check-ups to ensure proper fit.
- Support and guidance from the orthotics care team.
- Clear guidelines for sports and activities.
We help set your child up for success, providing support and everything they need to adhere to the treatment plan for the best possible results.
Learn more about scoliosis bracing, and more specifically the Rigo Cheneau style brace, from Nemours KidsHealth®.
Our spine care includes customized therapies developed by rehabilitation professionals who know how spine conditions affect a growing child. We offer complete spine therapy that includes sessions at our rehab locations and exercises your child can do at home, too. Our treatment approach includes:
- Tailored exercise programs.
- Posture training and awareness.
- Core strengthening.
- Flexibility improvements.
- Pain management techniques.
- Home exercise instruction.
- Activity modifications for daily life and sports.
- Progress monitoring.
For some conditions, we may employ the Schroth method of physical therapy along with bracing. This therapy helps kids with scoliosis and kyphosis improve posture, improve breathing, decrease pain, and keep the curve from getting worse.
Learn more about Schroth therapy from Nemours KidsHealth or find physical therapy services at Nemours.
Casting is sometimes used for spine conditions, especially in young children with early onset scoliosis. The process is designed to allow for growth and development. Generally, your child’s cast:
- Is applied under sedation or light anesthesia.
- Is custom molded to a child’s body.
- Requires changing every 2-3 months.
- May have a window to help with expanding lungs.
Our team will help you know how to care for the cast and provide guidance on clothing, bathing and activity.
When nonsurgical treatments aren’t enough to correct a spinal condition, surgery may help.
We offer the full range of surgical techniques for even the most complex conditions. Depending on your child’s condition and your goals and wishes, we may recommend:
- Minimally invasive methods with fewer, smaller cuts.
- Spinal fusion surgery.
- Growing systems for young children.
- Vertebral body tethering.
- Complex spine reconstruction.
We also offer enhanced recovery programs for kids, which works to improve health and outcomes.
Learn more about pediatric spine surgery at Nemours.
Learn More From the Experts
Nemours KidsHealth is the nation’s leading source for medical information for families. Our orthopedic spine specialists share their expertise, providing content used by children’s hospitals all over the country. Learn more about:
