Skip to Content
HCA HealthONE

Colorado teenager keeps dancing after first scoliosis treatment in the state

Sophia Clem is a pioneer as the first Vertebral Body Tethering patient in Colorado, and thriving six years later.

December 11, 2025
Sofia Clem wearing purple and black dancing attire with a black tutu.

By 8 years old, the spinal curve had progressed to 23 degrees, sending Sophia Clem to pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jaren Riley at HCA HealthONE Rocky Mountain Children’s to become the first VBT patient in Colorado. 

Watch the Denver7 story

Learn more about Dr. Riley and the team at HCA HealthONE Rocky Mountain Pediatric Scoliosis and Spine.

Published:
December 11, 2025
Location:
Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children at PSL, HCA HealthONE Rocky Mountain Children's Presbyterian St. Luke's