Tulsa doctor highlights Scoliosis Awareness Month, offers free screenings at Ascension St. John

As part of National Scoliosis Awareness Month, Dr. William Clark with Ascension St. John Medical Center is working to educate parents and teens about scoliosis, reduce fear, and celebrate the progress made in treatment and recovery.

Understanding Scoliosis

When people think of scoliosis, many recall school gym assessments from junior high. But Dr. Clark says that’s no longer how screenings happen.

“We don’t do that in high school gyms anymore,” Clark said. “They quit screening in schools, and now it’s on the pediatrician well-child visit.”

Parents should know that pediatricians now take the lead on identifying scoliosis, but it’s also important for families to ask questions and stay informed.

What Scoliosis Looks Like and How It’s Treated

“In layman’s terms, just a simple curvature of the spine,” Clark explained. “Either your spine’s in the shape of an S or in the shape of a C.”

If a child is diagnosed with scoliosis, treatment varies widely depending on the severity of the curve.

“Most curves are mild and require a lot of reassurance and educating and telling them that its gong to be OK,” Clark said.

“Some between 25 and 40 degrees may need a brace. Curves over 50 degrees often warrant surgery.”

Changing the Narrative Around Scoliosis

For National Scoliosis Awareness Month, Dr. Clark’s message is clear: scoliosis is not something to fear.

“If anything, I’m trying to celebrate it more than anything,” Clark said.

“The outcomes from scoliosis surgery are incredible. Most of these kids return to sport, have relief of pain, their cosmesis is improved, and they’re highly functional.”

Clark hopes to bring families and patients together to support each other and reduce the stigma.

“It’s about coming together as a community, sharing stories, and alleviating fear and misconceptions,” he said.

Surgery Isn’t the End, It’s a New Beginning

Despite fears around spine surgery, Dr. Clark says scoliosis procedures are manageable and effective.

“A lot of these kids have a three-hour surgery, they’re in the hospital for two days, back in school in two weeks, and return to full sport in three months,” he said.

“When you put it in those terms, that’s manageable.”

Free Scoliosis Screenings and Community Panel

To celebrate Scoliosis Awareness Month, Ascension St. John will host a special event:

1. Date/Time: Thursday night at 5:30 p.m.
2. Location: Ascension St. John campus
3. What’s included: Free scoliosis screenings, a panel of patients and parents, and educational resources