What is the recommended intervention for scoliosis with a cob angle between 25 and 40 degrees?

For scoliosis characterized by a Cobb angle between 25 and 40 degrees, bracing is the recommended intervention. This approach is primarily used to prevent further curvature progression during the developmental years, particularly in adolescents who are still growing. The brace is designed to apply corrective forces to the spine and is intended to stabilize the Cobb angle, thus reducing the risk of the curve worsening.

Bracing is typically considered when the patient is still growing, as the spine is more amenable to correction during this time. The effectiveness of bracing also depends on the patient's adherence to wearing the brace according to the prescribed schedule. In instances where the curvature is more severe or reaches angles above 40 degrees, surgical intervention may be indicated, usually to correct and stabilize the spine when bracing is no longer effective or if the curve progresses significantly.

Monitoring through observation may be appropriate for curves that are less than 25 degrees or for adults with scoliosis, as they are typically beyond the growing stage, and any curvature is less likely to progress. Physical therapy might offer some support in terms of enhancing posture and improving functional mobility, but it does not address the curvature directly in the same way bracing does for those within the 25 to 40-degree range. Thus,