Major new research has found that bracing may deter the need for surgery when scoliosis is found at an early age. Unfortunately, Texas’ school screening standards are set by legislative statute, and the current ages may be too late for early detection to be made. Therefore, it is critical for the 2017 Texas Legislature to change the statute to reflect the latest science and make the screenings more effective.

The Texas School Nurses Organization, Texas Pediatric Society, and Texas Orthopaedic Association strongly encourage the 2017 Legislature to update the standards to grant the Department of State Health Services the authority to update the state’s screening standards based on recommendations made by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, American Academy of Pediatrics, Scoliosis Research Society, and Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America.

Orthopaedic surgeons, school nurses, and patient advocates are asked to contact their state lawmakers about this issue.  Click here to contact your lawmaker.

Click here to learn more about the issue.

TOA members are invited to learn more about public policy issues that affect musculoskeletal health by clicking here.