"Observation n. the act of noting and recording something, such as an illness or disease, with instruments."
Observation is used in less severe cases; where curves are small, detection is early and there is a history of early growth completion. The procedure will vary depending on the curvature. For most patients in their teens this consists of yearly x-rays followed by a consultation to check and discuss the progression of the curve. In some cases, particularly if the curve is small, it will not progress and will remain fairly stable for the duration of the patient's life. If this is the case and the curvature shows no sign of significant progression, no further treatment will be necessary.
Monitoring is not recommended when a patient's growth is rapid, as the curve can also progress rapidly. It may be used, however, when curves become too large for bracing, then they can be monitored over a period of time to assess the need for alternative treatment.
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