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Gillette’s Approach to Spine Care

Welcome to Gillette Children’s where we work to provide the best in medical and nursing care for our patients. Gillette has been treating children with orthopedic conditions for over 125 years. The spine service was established in the 1940s and some of the earliest spine fusion operations in the world were performed here. Today, we treat the vast majority of children in Minnesota with spinal conditions and perform more pediatric scoliosis surgery than any other hospital in the 5-state area.  

At Gillette Children’s, your child benefits from having all of their necessary providers in one place. Our providers are regionally, nationally and internationally recognized for their research and are here to help you manage your child’s spine condition. 

 

What Sets Us Apart

  • Over 125 years as an institution and one of the earliest pediatric spine services in America under Dr. John Moe starting 80 years ago. 
  • Providers with experience taking care of common spine conditions but also care of patients with rare and complex medical conditions. 
  • Largest volume of pediatric spine patients in MN and the surrounding states. 

Our internationally recognized orthopedic and spine surgeons have expertise in treating complex pediatric spine conditions. We focus on both short and long-term outcomes in patients who have idiopathic scoliosis, as well as various treatment options for those with scoliosis associated with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy and other neuromuscular conditions. 

Spine Research

One of the biggest benefits of coming to Gillette Children’s is the fact that you get personalized care from providers in many specialties. This means they work together to determine a proper treatment plan.  

Our radiology team uses a wide variety of imaging tests to see inside the body. This can help our providers diagnose and treat complex conditions and injuries. From lower dose- radiation X-rays (EOS) to MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds, we offer high-quality imaging with increased safety and convenience.  

A unique aspect of spine care at Gillette is our experienced orthotics team. We use the latest technology to help create cutting edge braces for our patients. This team is typically onsite and works closely with the spine providers to ensure a patient has the best brace possible.  Learn more about casting and bracing.

 

Spine Conditions and Injuries

We provide expert treatment for 

Care Team


Providers

  • Michelle Engberg, DPT 

  • Kellen Feeney, DPT 

  • Katie Wilkins, DPT

  • Guido Bruyers, CO 

  • Janet Cortes, CO 

  • Joe Herman, CPO 

  • Molly Linquist, CPO 

  • Kristine Nolin, CPO 

  • Kristin Smith, CO 

  • Paul Swanlund, CO 

 

Our Specialties and Services

As a patient of Gillette Children’s, your child will have access to all our medical experts. Children with spine conditions work with providers from different teams, including, but not limited to: