Lateral electrical surface stimulation as an alternative to bracing in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Treatment protocol and patient acceptance.

The purpose of this article is twofold. The first is to describe the management by physical therapists of patients using lateral electrical surface stimulation (LESS) for the treatment of progressive idiopathic scoliosis. In this treatment, electrodes are placed on the convex side of the curve in the region of the posterior to midaxillary line to produce a corrective force. Stimulation is applied nightly as the patient sleeps. Treatment is monitored by regular checkups and is stopped at achievement of skeletal maturity. No other treatment or exercises are necessary. The second purpose is to present the results of a questionnaire given to patients who had used LESS for at least six months. Fifty-seven patients and their parents responded to questions on scoliosis, acceptance of LESS treatment, and comparison of LESS treatment with previous brace treatment, if appropriate. Results indicated that many of the brace-associated problems were eliminated, and patient acceptance was high.