Question
Is surgery the only true way to cure or "fix" scoliosis, and I am an athlete and was wondering if it affects your ability to jump

Answer
Dear Cary,

Wow this is a loaded question.  It really depends on the extent of the scoliosis, wether it has a rotatory component to it, how structurally significant the curvature is, if it is idopathic scoliosis, or if there is a known vertebral compromise such as a compression fracture or hemivertebra.

Many will tell you that scoliosis cannot be corrected without surgical fusion, others will tell you that it can be corrected with bracing, exercises, and traction.  I have seen cases of dramatic improvement from traction and bracing, but these protocols are intense and may or may not work.  I utilize traction in my practice on patients, but scoliosis is difficult to overcome.

The surgical fix requires extensive surgery that may need to be repeated and will leave you will rods in your back.  It is a large procedure, but when scoliosis is progressive and severe surgery has its value, and has resulted in true benefits to some patients.  Others have has poor results after surgery.  It really is a case by case basis that needs to be evaluated by multiple physicians...I would not take just one opinion on the matter.

Concerning alternative techniques for scoliosis management I would check out the following links:

www.idealspine.com
www.pettibonsystem.com
www.spinecorporation.com

In relation to the ability to jump after surgical correction, you would really need to consult with a surgeon for that breadth of information.  I cannot say for sure that it would or would not.  Realistically the power of the jump is generated by the speed in which you can fire the muscles in the legs, but stability of the core is required for all movements including jumping.  After surgery the core will be weakened, but rehabilitation can address that issue.

Respectfully,
Dr. J. shawn Leatherman