Ava’s Bracing Story: From Patient to Practitioner

Many people with scoliosis have their lives changed by bracing, but few are so intrigued and impressed by the experience that they end up entering the O&P field.
Learn more about scoliosis, spinal treatment and products from Boston Orthotics & Prosthetics. Blog posts cover new technology, product comparisons, clinician profiles, scoliosis treatment results, resources for patients and families, and inspiring stories about living with scoliosis.
Many people with scoliosis have their lives changed by bracing, but few are so intrigued and impressed by the experience that they end up entering the O&P field.
Many people have never heard of scoliosis before they are diagnosed. That was not the case with 13-year-old Ava Krukonis.
Physical therapy is used to increase function, range of motion, and strength in a specific part of the body. When paired with other treatments or interventions, it can help improve outcomes and have longer-lasting results. There are many physical therapy specialties, and physical therapy for scoliosis requires a specific training program that certifies an individual to practice in that sub-specialty.
Books can help us understand and get through the biggest of life's challenges, and scoliosis is no exception. Check out these great books about scoliosis for every level of reader.
At age 4, Kendall was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis. Her mom bought her a Higgy Bear to help her cope with wearing her brace and to use as an educational tool when explaining the brace to her peers.
Sarah Cunzolo, COA, CFo, CPed is a Certified Orthotic Assistant, Certified Fitter-orthotics, Certified Pedorthist who specializes in pediatric orthotics among other things at the Boston O&P clinic in Wexford, PA. In this Q&A, Sarah shares how she got into the field, her love for patient care and how she continues to grow her expertise.
When Paige’s parents took her to her yearly checkup at age 5, her pediatrician, Dr. Kimberly Kinney at Orangetown Pediatrics, noticed a small bulge in her shoulder. “It was so subtle, nobody really understands how she saw it,” says Paige’s mom Tennille Marino. Dr. Kinney recommended Paige see a specialist.
Shea Stokesbary is a certified orthotist prosthetist who specializes in pediatric orthotics among other things at the Boston O&P clinic in Richmond, VA. In this Q&A, Shea shares how she got into the field, her love for mixing biomechanics, art, and patient care and how she continues to grow her expertise.