Category: Patient Education
Greta’s Heroic Journey Video
Posted on July 17, 2023
“Greta is a straight-A student, plays piano, and loves to dance, but she was born with a condition that caused her spine to curve and stopped her lungs from functioning. Our Och Spine Team and NewYork-Presbyterian performed a series of major surgeries to correct her severe scoliosis. Most recently, we performed a spinal fusion to straighten the curve in her spine, which allows her to live a fuller life.” —Dr. Michael Vitale Read More
Curvy Girls Announces New Book—Features Chapter by Dr. Vitale
Posted on June 20, 2023
June 19, 2023, Dr. Vitale and his team were excited to attend the Curvy Girls biennial conference in Long Island. At the conference, Curvy Girls celebrated the release of their latest book: "Straight Talk Scoliosis: The Journey Continues.” In this new book, Dr. Vitale gives his perspective on scoliosis and its treatment. Read More
Discover More About Scoliosis Awareness Month & Resources
Posted on June 13, 2023
June is National Scoliosis Awareness Month. Its purpose is to highlight the need for public education, early detection, and awareness about scoliosis and its prevalence within the community. The National Scoliosis Awareness Month campaign also brings together scoliosis patients, families, ... Read More
The Uplift: Greta’s Inspiring Journey and Dance Performances, on CBS News
Posted on March 16, 2023
"I just love dance so much, because it gives me a way to express myself...I can do so many things that people can't think I can do. Dance has also made a way for me to use my movements and ... Read More
Greta—Helping Other Find the “Ability” in “Disability”
Posted on March 08, 2023
Greta Baier, 14, lives with a rare muscle disease called nemaline myopathy and has undergone three major spine surgeries to correct severe scoliosis. Yet none of that has stopped her from being an advocate for the disabled. In many ways, Greta ... Read More
New Patient Story Video: Greta’s Journey
Posted on September 28, 2022
"As you can see, this is an amazing kid—advocating for other children with disabilities, excelling in school and socially, and really standing as a testament to what modern medicine can do." —Michael Vitale, MD "I just want to thank Dr. Vitale ... Read More
Rachel’s Story Featured on Och Spine Hospital’s Page
Posted on August 23, 2022
Rachel Mason of Long Island is a fearless 18-year-old: she's sung in front of a full audience at Radio City Music Hall. She can handspring across the floor and make it look easy. She doesn't let anything stop her — ... Read More
What to Know About Scoliosis — If your child has scoliosis…
Posted on October 18, 2021
Spine expert Michael Vitale, MD shares 10 things parents and caregivers should know about scoliosis Scoliosis, a common, sometimes hereditary spinal condition, is a curvature of the spine that affects 2% to 3% of the population in the United States, or an ... Read More
Eight Facts to Know About Scoliosis
Posted on October 04, 2021
Scoliosis, a common, sometimes hereditary spinal condition, is a curvature of the spine that affects 2% to 3% of the population in the United States, or an estimated 6 million to 9 million people. But with new opportunities for treatment that ... Read More
What to Know About Back Pain in Children
Posted on September 23, 2021
From heavy backpacks to scoliosis, two NewYork-Presbyterian experts discuss the causes of back pain in children and what kids can do to keep their backs healthy as they return to school. Back pain, including lower back pain, is a common complaint among children ... Read More