Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal shape of the spine - it usually causes no noticeable symptoms in children, other than a change in the appearance of the back.
Physical signs of scoliosis include:
- A curved spine;
- One shoulder or hip sticking out;
- Clothes not fitting well;
- A tendency to lean to one side;
- People with scoliosis commonly experience back pain.
Why does scoliosis develop?
The cause of scoliosis is often unknown, in some cases it is caused by other conditions such as:
Cerebral palsy - a condition caused by brain damage that develops at birth or shortly afterwards.
Muscular dystrophy - a genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness.
Marfan syndrome - a connective tissue disorder.
How is scoliosis treated?
Generally, most children with scoliosis do not need treatment as the condition is mild and the curve may improve over time.
In most cases, treatment involves the use of a spinal brace , which the child wears until growth stops. The brace is usually effective in preventing the curve of the spine.
Back pain
Back pain is not usually characteristic of scoliosis, although the condition becomes painful as the curve worsens. Scoliosis pain is common in adults who have had mild scoliosis and whose condition has worsened over time. The pain usually occurs in the area of the curvature, at the nearest muscles.
Causes of scoliosis
In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown and cannot be prevented. This condition is not related to exercise, diet, or poor posture.
Unknown causes
If the cause of scoliosis is unknown, it is idiopathic scoliosis. 8 out of 10 cases of scoliosis are idiopathic, although researchers have found that a third of idiopathic scoliosis cases have a family history of the condition, suggesting a genetic link. Idiopathic scoliosis is common in adults and children. In adults, scoliosis usually has a milder course, although the condition may worsen later in life.
Diagnosis of scoliosis
Scoliosis is diagnosed after a physical examination of the spine, ribs, hips and shoulders.
Scan
To confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis, the orthopedist will take x-rays. X-rays will help the doctor determine the shape, direction, location, and angle of the curvature. In some cases, a magnetic resonance imaging scan will be necessary.
If you have symptoms that indicate nerve damage or irritation, you will need another type of x-ray, in which a special agent is placed around the spine.
Surgery
Surgery is high risk, so surgery is only recommended in severe cases.
Possible complications of scoliosis
Physical complications of scoliosis are rare, but without treatment, serious health problems can develop.
Kyphosis
If a severe form of scoliosis is not treated in time, it can result in a round or hunched back. This condition is called kyphosis and is characterized by back pain.
Lung and heart problems
If severe scoliosis is not treated (when the curvature angle is 70 or more), the ribs put pressure on the heart and lungs and cause physical damage. Damage to the heart and lungs also increases the likelihood of developing lung infections, such as pneumonia, and heart failure.
Other back problems
Adults who had scoliosis as children are more prone to developing chronic (long-term) back pain.
Keep in mind that without timely treatment of scoliosis, arthritis can develop.
