Episodios

  • 33 Scoliosis World: The Myth of Curve-Centered Care

    33 Scoliosis World: The Myth of Curve-Centered Care
    Dec 23 2025
    Episode 33 - Scoliosis surgery is often presented as a permanent solution for spine curvature, but it may not address the underlying functional and neurological factors that influence spinal health. In this video, we explore why surgical solutions for scoliosis aren’t always ideal and what limitations they may have when it comes to long-term mobility, adaptability, and nervous system function. We discuss how spinal fusion and other surgical interventions can restrict natural movement, shift stress to surrounding areas, and sometimes lead to compensatory patterns elsewhere in the body. From a holistic and natural spine health perspective, we look at why supporting function, balance, and movement may be an important part of scoliosis care. This video is intended for those seeking to understand non-surgical and conservative approaches to scoliosis, and why surgery may not always be the first or best option depending on the individual.
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    31 m
  • 32 Scoliosis World: Scoliosis Activity Suit

    32 Scoliosis World: Scoliosis Activity Suit
    Dec 16 2025
    Episode 32: Scoliosis World w/ Dr. Morningstar — Scoliosis Activity Suit Explained In this episode of Scoliosis World, Dr. Morningstar takes a close look at the Scoliosis Activity Suit — an emerging tool designed to work with your body’s movement patterns to influence spinal alignment and muscle coordination. We explore: • What the Activity Suit is and how it differs from traditional bracing • The theory behind muscle firing pattern retraining and rotational challenge • Real-world applications for patients, families, and clinicians • Who may benefit most and key clinical considerations This is essential viewing if you’re evaluating active vs. passive scoliosis management tools and want to understand their practical role in movement.
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    33 m
  • 31 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 3

    31 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 3
    Dec 7 2025
    Episode 31 - This video, "Scoliosis World W/ Dr.Morningstar: Hormones Part 3," is the third part of a series discussing the role of hormones in scoliosis management, focusing primarily on treatment options for hormone imbalances in both teenagers and adults. The discussion is led by Dr. Morningstar and Dr. Megan Strauchman The main focus of the episode is the critical difference between conventional and bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially in relation to adult scoliosis patients dealing with bone density issues related to perimenopause and menopause. Key Topics and Takeaways Hormones and Teenage Scoliosis The hosts emphasize a preference for an integrative and holistic approach when treating teenagers to correct hormone imbalances. [01:15] The goal is to encourage normal hormone output by utilizing natural substances like: Enzymes, precursors, or amino acids. Over-the-counter pregnenolone or DHEA. [01:29], [01:55] Lifestyle modifications are also recommended, such as minimizing exposure to environmental sources of xenoestrogens (estrogen-mimicking chemicals in plastics). [02:00] Hormone Imbalance and Adult Scoliosis In adult females, hormone problems related to perimenopause and menopause can lead to bone density issues. [02:49] These issues can cause existing scoliotic curves to progress or result in the de novo onset of degenerative lumbar scoliosis (which affects almost two out of three women over age 60). [02:56], [03:04] Proper hormone management is also linked to the brain's ability to maintain postural muscle memory, which is key for long-term success with scoliosis-specific exercises and bracing. [28:06] Conventional vs. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) The hosts dedicate a significant portion of the video to contrasting the two main types of hormone therapy: Conventional HRT (Synthetic) Bio-Identical HRT (BHRT) HRT Hormones that have been altered (e.g., with a methyl group) to make them patentable and profitable. Comes in set doses that cannot be modified to fit the individual patient's needs. [07:59] Studies, such as the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) in 2002, found an increased risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, endometrial cancer, and breast cancer. [10:34] BHRT Hormones that are molecularly identical to what the body once made (often plant-derived). [07:06] Is personalized and tailored to the individual patient's symptoms and blood test results. [08:55], [15:33] Perceived as safer and more effective by patients; studies show that non-oral estradiol does not increase blood clot risk and bio-identical testosterone can reduce the risk of breast cancer. [15:23], [26:09] Hormone Administration Routes The method of delivery is crucial for safety and efficacy: Estrogen and Testosterone are administered transdermally (as a cream applied to the skin). Oral administration is discouraged as it can increase the risk of blood clots (estrogen) or glucose levels (testosterone). [31:36] Progesterone is often given orally (capsules) because topical progesterone is less effective for improving sleep. [32:02] Testosterone Replacement in Males For male patients, testosterone replacement is typically done via injection (or sometimes pellets). [33:30] Topical creams are generally discouraged due to the large required doses being "goopy" and the high risk of transference to partners or family members. [34:19] Injectables should be dosed more frequently (e.g., twice a week) to avoid large "peak and trough" fluctuations in hormone levels. [35:38] You can watch the full video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NI0UxWpT4T8 #Scoliosis #HormoneReplacementTherapy #BioIdenticalHormones #BHRT #Menopause #WomensHealth #HormoneHealth #ScoliosisTreatment #DrMorningstar #HormoneImbalance #FunctionalMedicine #IntegrativeMedicine #BoneDensity #Perimenopause #AdultScoliosis
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    38 m
  • 30 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 2

    30 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 2
    Dec 7 2025
    Episode 30 - In this episode of Scoliosis World, Dr. Mark Morningstar takes a deeper dive into how hormones can influence scoliosis onset, progression, pain, and fatigue — especially during puberty and rapid growth. He and his continued special guest, Dr. Megan Strauchman, explain how factors like estrogen, progesterone, growth hormone, thyroid function, and stress hormones may impact spinal curves, bone density, muscle tone, and treatment results, and why standard “wait and see” approaches often miss these root causes. You’ll learn: Why some kids’ curves worsen dramatically during puberty while others remain stable How hormone imbalances can affect bone strength, posture control, sleep, and mood The role of advanced hormone and lab testing in creating a more personalized scoliosis treatment plan Practical ways parents can ask better questions and advocate for more comprehensive care 🔗 Watch now: https://youtu.be/gEdyT_vQegs Hashtags: #ScoliosisWorld #ScoliosisPodcast #HormonesAndScoliosis #AdolescentScoliosis #IdiopathicScoliosis #ScoliosisAwareness #SpineHealth #FunctionalMedicine #BackGenius #ScoliosisCare #HormoneHealth #ScoliosisMom #ScoliosisDad #TeenHealthIn www.scoliosispractice.com #scoliosis #functionalmedicine #spinehealth
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    38 m
  • 29 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 1

    29 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 1
    Nov 22 2025

    In Part 1 of our hormone series, we explore how hormonal balance influences inflammation, metabolism, and overall musculoskeletal health. Many patients do not realize how much external hormonal inputs can affect long-term wellness and how these factors interact with scoliosis risk.

    In this episode, we cover:
    • How birth control pills can contribute to inflammation

    • The differences between synthetic hormones and the hormones produced naturally by the body

    • Research showing that certain synthetic hormones may be associated with increased cancer risk (contextual discussion, not individualized medical advice)

    • Glyphosate as an environmental compound with estrogen-mimicking properties

    • How birth control pills may provide symptom relief while potentially suppressing natural hormone production

    • Why most children diagnosed with scoliosis have low body fat

    • Why having low adipose tissue does not rule out metabolic or insulin-related problems

    This episode sets the foundation for understanding how the endocrine system, metabolism, and environmental influences work together to shape long-term health outcomes.
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    32 m
  • 28 Scoliosis World: Spinal Flexibility

    28 Scoliosis World: Spinal Flexibility
    Nov 15 2025

    Spinal flexibility is one of the most important factors in predicting scoliosis outcomes. It not only influences how much curve correction might be possible but also helps determine whether specific treatment approaches are worth pursuing.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • How spinal flexibility helps set expectations for achievable improvement

    • Why treatment intensity should match the likelihood of meaningful results

    • How lying-down x-rays provide a clearer picture of true flexibility

    • Why these specialized x-rays often need to be taken at specific imaging centers

    • How Back Genius tools help identify whether bracing is likely to work or whether a patient may need other corrective strategies

    • How a history of bracing can sometimes negatively impact surgical outcomes

    • How Back Genius conservative programs may improve flexibility prior to surgery (potentially improving the results of surgical intervention)

    Understanding flexibility early allows patients and families to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatment paths.
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    32 m
  • 27 Scoliosis World: Genomics & Scoliosis

    27 Scoliosis World: Genomics & Scoliosis
    Nov 11 2025

    Scoliosis is commonly viewed as a structural issue of the spine, but the visible curve is often the final expression of deeper, systemic factors. In this episode, we focus on genomics and how it shapes both the likelihood of developing a curve and the way the body responds to treatment.


    We discuss how:

    Scoliosis is not primarily a spine problem (the curvature is the last thing that shows up)

    A collection of genetic variants can increase the likelihood of curve development during rapid growth

    Melatonin and serotonin pathways play a role in both postural reflex control and bone modulation

    Genomic patterns help explain why two people with the same curve type often respond very differently to braces, exercise, therapy, or surgery

    Long-term correction requires addressing the underlying reasons the curve formed, not just the visible structure


    Genomics allows us to evaluate predetermined risk, personalize treatment strategies, and understand the origin of the curve rather than only managing its appearance.
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    32 m
  • 26 Scoliosis World: Insulin Resistance

    26 Scoliosis World: Insulin Resistance
    Oct 27 2025

    • How insulin resistance fuels whole-body inflammation and joint pain

    • Why it’s a major metabolic factor in scoliosis patients

    • How constant food availability disrupts your hormonal balance

    • The surprising way insulin drives fat storage and even stores your hormones inside fat cells

    • Practical ways to start restoring metabolic health and reducing pain
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    40 m