Scoliosis is an unnatural curvature of the spine. The normal shape of the spine includes a top-of-the-shoulder curve and a lower back curve. If your spine is curved from side to side or in an âSâ or âCâ shape, you probably have scoliosis.
According to the Scoliosis Research Society, more than 80 percent of scoliosis cases have no identifiable cause (SRS). The condition is often diagnosed during the first seven years of a childâs life. Common causes (when they can be pinpointed) are birth defects, neurological abnormalities, and genetic conditions.
The largest category of scoliosis is idiopathic scoliosis, which has no definite cause. Idiopathic scoliosis is broken down by age group:
There are a number of different types of scoliosis among the estimated 20 percent of cases in which a cause can be identified, including:
Scoliosis can also be broken into two other categories: structural or nonstructural. Structural scoliosis is when the spineâs curve is fixed and was caused by a disease, injury, or birth defect. Nonstructural scoliosis is when the curve is temporary and can be fixed.
In many cases, the cause of scoliosis cannot be determined. Among those individuals with scoliosis in whom a cause can be determined, the most common are:
People with a family history of scoliosis are more likely to develop the condition. Girls are more likely to have a more severe form of scoliosis than boys are.
Scoliosis is a physical condition that can cause severe spinal curving. Since there are varying degrees of scoliosis, symptoms may vary. Common symptoms associated with scoliosis include:
Since scoliosis is a spinal shape issue, a physical examination is the first step. Your doctor will observe your back while you stand with your arms at your sides. He or she will be looking for spine curvature and whether or not your shoulders and waist area are symmetrical (in line). Next, your doctor will ask you to bend forward and observe your back from this angle. This time he or she will look for curvature in your upper and lower back.
In addition, some form of imaging test will be used to get a closer look at your skeleton. Tests may include:
The type of treatment depends on numerous factors, but the degree of spine curvature is a major factor. Your doctor will also take into consideration your age, whether you are likely to continue growing, the amount and type of curvature, and the type of the scoliosis.
The primary treatment options are bracing and surgery.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, you will like have to use a brace if:
The braces will not straighten the spine, but can prevent the curvature from increasing. This method of treatment is more effective for cases that are detected early.
The braces will usually be worn 24 hours a day for maximum effectiveness. However, children will be able to remove the braces to participate in normal exercise and sports activities. A doctor will usually recommend that braces be worn until a child reaches adolescence and is no longer growing.
There are two main types of braces:
Surgery is usually reserved for people with severe curvesâthose greater than 45 or 50 degrees. However, you can always request this option if you feel that the curvature is interrupting your daily life or causing you discomfort.
Spinal fusion is the standard scoliosis surgery. The doctor will fuse your vertebrae (spinal bones) together using a material similar to bone, called bone graft, and rods and screws. The rods keep the spine in a straight position and the screws hold it in place. This will result in the bone graft and the vertebrae eventually fusing into a single bone. Childrenâs rods can be adjusted as they grow. There are some risks inherent in spinal fusion surgery including:
The long-term outlook for scoliosis depends on how severe the curvature is. For mild to moderate cases, the condition will not interfere with everyday functions. However, individuals with severe forms of scoliosis may have some physical limitations.
Growing up with scoliosis can be difficult. It is important for your child to have a support group and for you to join a parental support group as well. This will give you and your child shoulders to lean on and sounding boards for advice about dealing with the condition on a daily basis.
Source: http://www.healthline.com
We respect your privacy and aim for the best website experience in compliance with local laws. Allowing cookies enables a tailored experience, while disabling them may reduce personalization. For more information, please read our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.