Provider Spotlight: Advanced SSE Providers at Shriners Children's Spokane

Shriners Children’s Spokane is proud to offer an innovative, non-surgical rehabilitation treatment option for pediatric spine patients. It is the only location in the Inland Northwest with the two most advanced certified providers.

Scoliosis specific exercise program (SSE) is an exercise plan used to develop the inner muscles of the rib cage by elongating the trunk and correcting imbalances of the spine.

Physical therapist and brand ambassador Lauren Drury, along with physical therapist Rachel Erb, are trained and certified in this specialized therapy program used to treat juvenile and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and other spinal deformities.

“During school we do not get a lot of education on the treatment or management of scoliosis,” said Drury. “If I was going to help patients, I needed to have the advanced training to support them in their conservative management of scoliosis, as well as assist them pre- and post-operatively if a posterior spine fusion is required.”

The primary goal of SSE is to reduce the curve and minimize the progression of a spinal curvature to potentially avoid surgery.

“I want to be able to give patients the tools to address their posture, balance and strength throughout their life, and SSE can do that,” added Drury.

SSE teaches patients about their specific scoliosis. It gives them the education, tools and exercises to improve their overall posture, muscular balance and control.

SSE can assist in alleviating pain, help prevent curve progression and maximize overall function.

Scoliosis is a lateral curve of the spine accompanied by rotation. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type and occurs with a diagnosis at 10 years or older in the absence of underlying congenital or neurological issues.

Every patient is unique and the pediatric spine team at Shriners Children’s Spokane is ready to provide an individualized treatment plan at every level of progression.