7 Dec 2025
31 Scoliosis World: Hormones Pt 3
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
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#FunctionalMedicine
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