Stopping Scoliosis: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment [Paperback]

Nancy J. Hooper (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 28, 2002

Scoliosis-curvature of the spine-is a disorder so common that twenty states now require screening of preteens. One in every fifty American youngsters is affected by it. While scoliosis is an upsetting condition, it can almost always be treated if detected early.

Written by a scoliosis sufferer, Stopping Scoliosis takes the reader through every stage of the condition. It discusses ways to diagnose scoliosis before exploring all the options for treating it-both surgical and non-surgical. The advancements in bracing and surgical techniques that have been made in the past few years are examined in detail. Also included are methods for managing pain, tips on how to prepare for surgery, and compelling patient stories from people of all ages.

Endorsed by the National Scoliosis Foundation, this is the most comprehensive, up-to-date book on scoliosis available.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Contending that "the more you know about scoliosis, and the sooner you know it, the more likely you are to stop it from progressing," science writer Schommer presents a compassionate, informative guide to the diagnosis and treatment of curvature of the spine. "Because of ignorance, pride, and fear, my family and I allowed my scoliosis to reach a point where it took a total of eight hours on an operating table, 16 months in a plaster body cast, and untold hours of anxiety to straighten it out," explains Schommer, stressing the importance of early detection through school screening programs, followed by early treatment. She discusses the various surgical as well as nonsurgical treatments (Milwaukee and underarm braces, electronic stimulator) and briefly addresses current research into alternative methods. The personal case histories are gripping. Appendixes list books and brochures, scoliosis organizations and physicians who specialize in the field. Illustrations.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

About the Author

Nancy Schommer is a professional science writer.

Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: Avery Trade; 2 edition (March 28, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1583331212
• ISBN-13: 978-1583331217
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #675,322 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must-read for anyone facing treatment of scoliosis, October 23, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: Stopping Scoliosis: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment (Paperback)

I read this book in 1994 right before I had surgery for scoliosis. I identified with the author's story so strongly that it brought tears to my eyes. Nancy Schommer, who had scoliosis herself, provides a personal, riveting first- person story along with plenty of factual information and advice. This book is perfect for teenagers with scoliosis who feel depressed, confused, and like there is no one who can identify with them. Schommer wore a brace and had surgery for scoliosis and provides accounts of both. The book also includes a list of reputable hospitals and foundations. Excellent, excellent, excellent!

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good information, June 27, 2000

By 

Diana (Kansas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Stopping Scoliosis: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment (Paperback)

I have scoliosis and have gone through bracing and surgery. This book gave me a better understanding about the disorder and it's treatment options. The first-hand accounts provide a personal face, reminding the rest of us we're not alone! Some of the material about surgery and bracing is outdated, but it's a good book for anyone facing scoliosis treatment.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Information is dated, May 24, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Stopping Scoliosis: The Complete Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment (Paperback)

Based on other books and research on the web, I found the information to be rather dated. However, the personal stories of people coping with scoliosis are helpful.