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In this episode of Spine Talks, we explore one of the most important questions in spine health: What’s New in Scoliosis Research?
Host Dr. Rita Roy, CEO of the Spine Health Foundation, is joined by Dr. Nicolas Plais-Cotrel, orthopedic spine surgeon at the University Hospital of Granada and member of the Scientific Board of the Fondation Yves Cotrel, one of the world's leading organizations dedicated to advancing scoliosis research. Together, they discuss groundbreaking discoveries that are reshaping our understanding of scoliosis and bringing new hope to patients and families worldwide.
The conversation explores how scoliosis is far more than a simple sideways curvature of the spine. Dr. Plais-Cotrel explains the complex three-dimensional nature of the condition, the unique role of human spinal alignment and bipedal posture, and why scoliosis remains one of the most fascinating mysteries in musculoskeletal medicine.
Topics include:
• The difference between normal spinal alignment and scoliosis, and why spinal curves are essential for balance and movement
• Why scoliosis is considered a uniquely human condition linked to our upright posture
• New insights into the biomechanics of spinal growth and curve progression
• Emerging discoveries in genetics and the search for biological pathways that may explain why scoliosis develops
• How neuroscience, proprioception, balance, and vestibular function may influence spinal deformity
• The Fondation Yves Cotrel’s international research efforts to uncover the causes—or etiology—of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
• The role of bracing, early detection, and scoliosis screening in improving outcomes for children and adolescents
• Why multidisciplinary collaboration among surgeons, geneticists, engineers, neurologists, and researchers is accelerating progress toward future treatments and prevention strategies
Throughout the discussion, Drs. Roy and Plais-Cotrel emphasize a powerful message: while significant questions remain, the future of scoliosis research has never been more promising. By bringing together leading scientists from around the world and investing in innovative research, organizations like the Fondation Yves Cotrel are helping move the field beyond treating scoliosis toward understanding—and ultimately preventing—it.
This inspiring conversation offers patients, families, clinicians, and researchers a front-row seat to the discoveries that may define the next generation of scoliosis care.
Learn More: https://spinehealth.org/spine-talks/
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