Scoliosis is a medical condition in which a person’s spine has an abnormal side-to-side curve. Yes, the spine has very normal curves, but when looking from the front, it should look completely straight. In scoliosis, the spine rotates or twists to one side, and a person’s ribs may push out. Scoliosis often develops during periods of fast growth in children and adolescents.
Scoliosis & Its Symptoms
Scoliosis refers to an abnormal sideways spinal curve and rotation. Simply stated, scoliosis makes your spine curve towards either side. Scoliosis curves are often S-shaped or C-shaped. In some people, the degree of the curve increases over time as the spine continues to grow.
Types of Scoliosis
There are several types of scoliosis based on age of onset, cause, and curve pattern. The most common types are idiopathic scoliosis, congenital scoliosis, and neuromuscular scoliosis.
Common Symptoms of Scoliosis
The most common symptoms and signs include:
- One shoulder is higher or lower than the other
- Spinal curvature to one side when bending forward.
- Unequal hips
- Uneven waist
- One shoulder blade protrudes more when arms are raised overhead.
- Head not centred over the body.
- The torso is leaning to one side.
Causes
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis refers to scoliosis with no known cause, and it is the most common form, making up a majority of cases. While the cause is unknown, researchers believe that it may involve a combination of genes, growth, muscle spasms, and uneven forces on the spine.
Congenital Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis develops due to a spinal malformation present at birth. The most common malformation is a hemivertebra, in which one side of a spinal segment is incomplete or missing. It typically causes problems earlier in life and requires frequent monitoring and often bracing or surgery.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Neuromuscular scoliosis arises from conditions affecting the muscles contributing to the spine standing. The most common causes include cerebral palsy. Individuals with neuromuscular scoliosis typically develop severe spinal curves, often requiring bracing at a young age. Surgery may also be recommended early on to prevent complications.
Degenerative Scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis develops in adults due to age-related degeneration of the spine. You will see this generally in the lower back and neck. As the spine loses structure with age, it begins to shift sideways. It can cause significant pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion. Treatment focuses on managing pain and slowing the progression of the curve. Surgery may be recommended in severe cases.
Other Less Common Causes
Less commonly, scoliosis can result from injuries, infections, bone diseases, or connective tissue disorders. Leg length discrepancy can also contribute to its development.
What are Some Treatment Options for Scoliosis?
Observation and Monitoring
For minor curves (<25-30 degrees), the only treatment needed may be occasional monitoring by a back and spine specialist to check for progression. Observation is common in skeletally immature patients, especially those under 10. If progression occurs, the treatment approach can be re-evaluated by a back and spine specialist in Phoenix or your area.
Bracing
Bracing may be used for moderate curves (between 25 and 45 degrees) in still-growing patients. Bracing aims to prevent further progression and avoid surgery, and braces are ineffective for severe scoliosis or patients who have stopped growing.
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended for severe scoliosis (curves greater than 45-50 degrees) or scoliosis that causes pain or restricts function. The most common procedure is spinal fusion with rod placement, in which vertebrae are fused and held in place with rods and screws. Surgery can significantly reduce pain, improve appearance, and prevent curve progression.
Alternative Therapies
Some alternative treatments that may relieve and help reduce scoliosis curve progression include physical therapy, yoga or tai chi, massage therapy, and acupuncture. However, alternative therapies should not be used as the primary treatment.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle changes may help relieve scoliosis symptoms and support medical treatment. Staying active, maintaining good posture, sleeping on a firm mattress, and exercising can help strengthen and support the back.
Conclusion
Scoliosis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life if left untreated. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals and their families can get the care and support they need to monitor or slow the progression of spinal curves. Partnering with a specialist is key to developing an effective treatment plan and maintaining spinal health.
Also, read: 4 Things You Should Know About Mesothelioma
