Meet Your Scoliosis Treatment Team

Dedicated specialists who have committed their careers to comprehensive scoliosis care. Combined expertise in chiropractic rehabilitation, functional medicine, and hormone optimization—providing truly integrative treatment.

Mission/Vision

Why Our Dual-Doctor Approach Works

Most scoliosis practices offer either structural treatment (chiropractic, exercises, bracing) OR medical management (hormone optimization, functional medicine)—but rarely both under one roof.

At The Scoliosis Practice, you benefit from integrated expertise:

Dr. Mark Morningstar

Director of Scoliosis Management

Dr. Mark Morningstar brings decades of specialized scoliosis experience—chiropractic rehabilitation, corrective bracing, scoliosis-specific exercises, and biomechanical expertise.

Dr. Megan Strauchman

Medical Director | Functional Medicine Specialist

Dr. Megan Strauchman provides medical oversight—hormone optimization, functional medicine, pain management, and whole-body health assessment.

Together, they address ALL dimensions of scoliosis:

This integrated approach is why our patients achieve results traditional medicine cannot provide.

"Proper scoliosis treatment and management requires more than just physical treatment. That's why we are a dedicated scoliosis practice. Scoliosis is nearly all we do."
Dr. Morningstar
"Most doctors never address hormones in scoliosis patients—especially post-menopausal women. But hormone optimization is often THE most critical intervention for stopping progression and reducing pain."
Dr. Strauchman

Dr. Mark Morningstar is a 2002 graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and is one of only a few chiropractic physicians triple board certified in spine medicine, integrative medicine, and clinical nutrition. He is also certified as a hyperbaric specialist. His career has been almost exclusively dedicated to patients with scoliosis—making him one of the nation’s foremost experts in non-surgical scoliosis treatment.

Leadership & Professional Achievements:

Dr. Morningstar is a founding member of the Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), officially founded in 2005 in Milan, Italy. This prestigious international organization comprises top physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists, and orthotists from around the world dedicated to advancing non-surgical scoliosis treatment.

Through SOSORT, Dr. Morningstar continues spreading awareness about evidence-based, exercise-focused scoliosis treatment alternatives to the traditional "watch and wait" or surgery-only approach.

Dr. Morningstar serves as President of this professional organization dedicated to advancing chiropractic excellence in scoliosis treatment.

Dr. Morningstar has been published multiple times in peer-reviewed biomedical literature, contributing to the scientific understanding of scoliosis treatment effectiveness. His research includes studies on:

  • Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis treatment protocols
  • Adult degenerative scoliosis management
  • Manipulation under anesthesia for scoliosis patients
  • Corrective procedures and outcomes
  • Hormone relationships in scoliosis progression
  • Functional medicine applications in spinal disorders

Dr. Morningstar is working on multiple books covering scoliosis treatment, healthy living, and comprehensive approaches to spinal health.

Treatment Philosophy:

“Scoliosis encompasses more than a mere X-ray curvature. It involves complex interplays of hormone imbalances, neurotransmitter imbalances, bone density deficits, digestive disruptions, and neurological asymmetries. These factors, inherent to idiopathic scoliosis, must be diligently addressed in a comprehensive management plan.”

Dr. Morningstar believes that effective scoliosis treatment must address underlying causes—not just force the spine into a different position through bracing or surgery. This philosophy guides every treatment plan created at The Scoliosis Practice.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Pattern-specific exercise protocols (Schroth, CLEAR, SEAS)
  • 3-D rigid corrective bracing (SCT Cheneau-Gensingen)
  • Chiropractic rehabilitation for spinal disorders
  • Scoliosis Activity Suit implementation
  • Intensive BootCamp programs
  • Telemedicine scoliosis management
  • Functional medicine for scoliosis
  • Genetic testing interpretation
  • Nutritional protocols for bone health
  • Anti-inflammatory strategies
  • Neurotransmitter balancing
  • Functional neurology applications
  • Severe scoliosis (50+ degrees) non-surgical management
  • Adult degenerative scoliosis
  • Neuromuscular scoliosis
  • Post-surgical scoliosis complications
  • Failed back surgery rehabilitation
  • Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Lyme disease
  • Founding Member, SOSORT (Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment)
  • President, International Chiropractic Scoliosis Board
  • American Board of Wound Healing - Certified Hyperbaric Specialist
  • Founder and CEO, BackGenius
  • Board Certified: American Academy of Spine Physicians
  • Board Certified: American Association of Integrative Medicine
  • Board Certified: American Clinical Board of Nutrition
  • Doctor of Chiropractic: Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport, Iowa (2002)
  • Post-Graduate Training: Functional Neurology
  • Post-Graduate Training: Functional Medicine
  • Post-Graduate Training: Scoliosis-Specific Protocols (Pettibon, CLEAR, etc.)
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing advanced training in scoliosis treatment innovations
  • "Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Treatment Using Pettibon Corrective Procedures: A Case Report" (with Dr. Strauchman)
  • "Spinal Manipulation and Anterior Headweighting for Forward Head Posture Correction" (with Dr. Strauchman)
  • "Management of 59-Year-Old Female with Adult Degenerative Scoliosis Using MUA" (with Dr. Strauchman)
  • "Manipulation Under Anesthesia for Failed Back Surgery Patients: Retrospective Report" (with Dr. Strauchman)
  • Multiple case studies and research papers in peer-reviewed journals

Dr. Morningstar hosts "Scoliosis World," a podcast dedicated to all things scoliosis—from diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment to the influence of genetics, neurotransmitters, nutrition, and more.

Popular Episodes:

  • Episode 27: Genomics and Scoliosis
  • Episode 28: Spinal Flexibility
  • Episode 29: Hormones, Part 1
  • Episode 30: Hormones, Part 2
  • Episode 17: Sports and Scoliosis
  • Episode 22: The Vital Role of Vitamin D & K2 in Spinal Health

Listen: Available on Simplecast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and major podcast platforms

Patient Testimonials About Dr. Morningstar:

“Dr. Morningstar is incredibly knowledgeable about scoliosis and alternative ways to treat it aside from bracing.” — Parent Review

“I actually see Dr. Morningstar for my post-menopausal scoliosis. My pain has decreased significantly and my spine does appear to be as well as feels like it is straightening! Only one year of treatment but pleasantly surprised anything could be done to stop and even reverse my spine from twisting, even as I age!” — Adult Patient

“This place saved my life when no other doctor would push to find out what was wrong. Dr. Morningstar ran tests that regular doctors would not.” — Patient Review

Why Patients Choose Dr. Morningstar:

Dr. Megan Strauchman is the Medical Director of Natural Wellness & Pain Relief Center and The Scoliosis Practice. She is board certified in integrative medicine and fellowship trained by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. She has also earned Diplomate status from the American Association of Integrative Medicine.

With over 20 years of medical experience, Dr. Strauchman brings a unique perspective to scoliosis care—combining her background in OB/GYN with advanced training in functional medicine and hormone optimization. This distinctive expertise makes her particularly valuable for addressing the hormonal and metabolic factors that drive scoliosis progression and pain in adults—especially post-menopausal women.

Background in Women’s Health:
Dr. Strauchman’s background as an OB/GYN provides unique insight into women’s health and menopausal symptoms. This expertise is invaluable when treating adult scoliosis, as menopause-related hormonal changes are among the strongest drivers of curve progression and pain in women over 50.

Trusted by Medical Professionals:
Dr. Strauchman is most noted for taking care of many area doctors and their families for their own chronic health problems—a testament to the trust and respect she commands among her medical peers.

Treatment Philosophy:

“Most scoliosis patients—especially women—have never had their hormones comprehensively evaluated. But hormone imbalances are often THE primary driver of curve progression and pain. Bio-identical hormone replacement can literally stop progression and reduce pain by 50-70%+. If we don’t address hormones, all the structural treatment in the world will have limited lasting effect.”

Dr. Strauchman’s medical expertise ensures scoliosis patients receive true comprehensive care—addressing the internal biological environment that either supports healing or drives continued degeneration.

Areas of Expertise:

  • Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA)
  • Menopause symptom management
  • Peri-menopausal hormone balancing
  • Thyroid optimization
  • Adrenal support and cortisol management
  • Male hormone optimization (low testosterone)
  • Bone density optimization and osteoporosis treatment
  • Anti-inflammatory protocols
  • Nutritional medicine
  • Digestive health and gut healing
  • Food sensitivity identification
  • Chronic disease management
  • Non-pharmaceutical pain strategies
  • Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA)
  • Prolotherapy for joint and soft tissue injuries
  • Regenerative medicine approaches
  • Interventional pain management coordination
  • Adult degenerative scoliosis hormone protocols
  • Post-menopausal scoliosis management
  • Bone density aggressive treatment for scoliosis patients
  • Medical oversight for complex scoliosis cases
  • Lab interpretation and functional medicine integration
  • Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
  • Lyme disease
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Chronic pain syndromes
  • Hormone-related disorders

Professional Achievements:

Dr. Strauchman has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications with Dr. Morningstar, contributing to the medical literature on:

  • Scoliosis treatment protocols
  • Manipulation under anesthesia outcomes
  • Hormone relationships in scoliosis (salivary progesterone levels in females with idiopathic scoliosis)
  • Chronic pain management strategies
  • Weight loss and cardiovascular risk factor modification
  • Rotator cuff and adhesive capsulitis treatment
  • "Salivary Progesterone Levels in Female Patients with History of Idiopathic Scoliosis" (with Dr. Morningstar, 2022)
  • "Manipulation Under Anesthesia and Prolotherapy for Adhesive Capsulitis and Rotator Cuff Tear: 7-Year Follow-Up" (with Dr. Morningstar, 2022)
  • "Fluoroquinolone Toxicity Symptoms in Patient Presenting with Low Back Pain" (with Dr. Morningstar, 2012)
  • Multiple case studies on adult scoliosis management
  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine: A.T. Still University, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri (2004)
  • Fellowship: American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
  • Board Certification: Integrative Medicine
  • Diplomate: American Association of Integrative Medicine
  • Background Training: OB/GYN

Continuing Education: Advanced functional medicine, hormone optimization, regenerative medicine

  • Board Certified, American Board of Integrative Medicine
  • Diplomate, American Association of Integrative Medicine
  • Fellow, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine

Patient Testimonials About Dr. Strauchman:

“Dr. Strauchman is very easy to talk to and she genuinely cares about your overall health and progress. She took the time to review my entire medical history and asked a lot of questions to get the whole picture. She showed a genuine interest in helping me.” — Patient Review

“I genuinely believe that without Dr. Strauchman’s expertise and compassion, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I highly recommend Natural Wellness.” — Long-Term Patient

“Responsive. Knowledgeable. Patient. Both Dr. and staff. All questions answered. Knowledgeable use of blood work.” — Patient Review

“I have been a patient of Dr. Strauchman for many years. I recommend her quite often. She is very knowledgeable about hormones, Lyme, lab interpretations. She is not afraid of a challenging case or patients who have done their homework. If she doesn’t have an answer, she will find it.” — Patient Review

“Staff is friendly and thorough. Dr. Strauchman is very easy to talk to and she genuinely cares about you overall health and progress.” — Patient Review

Why Patients Choose Dr. Strauchman:

Team Collaborates

How Our Team Collaborates for Your Care

Your treatment isn’t managed in silos—Dr. Morningstar and Dr. Strauchman work closely together, sharing insights and coordinating protocols to ensure every aspect of your scoliosis is addressed.

The Collaborative Process:

Both doctors participate in your initial assessment, reviewing:

  • X-rays and structural analysis (Dr. Morningstar)
  • Medical history and lab results (Dr. Strauchman)
  • Combined recommendations for integrated treatment plan

Regular team consultations ensure your treatment remains optimally coordinated:

  • Weekly case review meetings
  • Shared patient files and progress notes
  • Coordinated treatment adjustments based on both structural and biological response
  • Unified messaging and goals

Specialized Expertise When Needed:

Dr. Morningstar focuses on:
Dr. Strauchman focuses on:
You Benefit From:
Success Stories

What Patients Say About Our Team

"Having both Dr. Morningstar and Dr. Strauchman working together on my case was game-changing. Dr. Morningstar focused on my curve with exercises and adjustments, while Dr. Strauchman discovered I was severely Vitamin D deficient and had major hormone imbalances. Addressing BOTH made all the difference."

    Linda S.

    Post-Menopausal Scoliosis Patient

    "They saved me from back surgery twice now. I have been a patient since 2016. Great doctors and great support staff. Both doctors are very down to earth. Everyone greets me by name. I feel very welcomed every time I am there. You definitely don't get this at other doctors' offices."

      Long-Term Patient

      "The staff at the wellness center were very professional. Dr. Strauchman took the time to review my entire medical history and asked a lot of questions to get the whole picture. Dr. Morningstar is incredibly knowledgeable about scoliosis and alternative treatment options. Together, they provide truly comprehensive care."

        Adult Scoliosis Patient

        "Doctor is knowledgeable about scoliosis and alternative ways to treat it aside from bracing. Staff is welcoming. The staff and doctors make the atmosphere a very friendly one. You don't get this level of personal attention elsewhere."

          Parent of Adolescent Patient

          Visit Us in Grand Blanc, Michigan

          The Scoliosis Practice
          A Division of Natural Wellness & Pain Relief Center

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          Ready to Experience Dual-Expert Scoliosis Care?

          Schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Morningstar and Dr. Strauchman’s team today.

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          Anti-Aging Medicine

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