Kimberly: Scoliosis Treatment is a Family Affair

Kimberly grew up knowing there was a good chance that she would have scoliosis. Scoliosis ran in her father’s family; her mother wore a back brace to help improve a spine curvature when she was a teenager; and she watched her older sister, Julie, as she underwent successful treatment and surgery for scoliosis. She also knew that if and when the day came that she needed to be treated for scoliosis, she already had the right medical team in place.

That day came in November of 2010 when Kimberly underwent her own surgery two years after her sister’s operation. Kimberly’s mother, Sheri, knew from her own personal battle with scoliosis that it’s best treated when caught early.  Because of this, Kimberly had been under the watchful eye of Dr. David P. Roye, Jr., Chief of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, ever since he began treating Julie back in 2007.

The first indication of Kimberly’s scoliosis was when her shoulder blade began to slightly protrude. Shortly after, Kimberly began to experience symptoms including back pain. A talented dancer, she also noticed that her balance was off while performing her pirouettes. Additionally, her upper spine near her neck was becoming more pronounced.  Dr. Roye informed Kimberly and her parents that her curve was progressing and eventually recommended corrective surgery. 

As expected, Kimberly was very concerned about undergoing an operation. Although she saw her sister’s successful outcome, Kimberly was worried that her dancing could be adversely affected. Dr. Roye assured her that she would be performing again in no time.

“What’s especially great about Dr. Roye is that he always takes the time out of his busy schedule to talk directly to his patients about their concerns. He included Kim in every conversation,” said Sheri. 

After the operation, Kimberly spent three weeks recuperating at home — no easy task for an active fifteen-year-old. After Christmas vacation, she returned to school and her normal routine. Six months after her operation, Kimberly was back on stage, dancing even better than before. Her balance is improved and she continues to feel stronger each day.

“I knew I was in the best of hands, especially after seeing how Dr. Roye treated my sister. I knew I could trust him,” said Kimberly.