Define Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition of the spine that affects nearly 12 million people worldwide. Although most people with scoliosis will experience few symptoms, others will face large curvatures that can cause pain and deformity. It is not a condition to be taken lightly. If you suspect you or a loved one may have scoliosis, schedule an appointment with your physician.

Scoliosis

• Scoliosis is an abnormal side to side curvature of the spine. A normal spine curves front to back. In patients with scoliosis, the spine curves from left to right, making the spine appear S- or C-shaped. As the spine rotates, it can push muscles and even ribs into unnatural positions. This may cause pain and difficulty breathing. The condition affects more girls than boys and usually appears in early to late adolescents.

Symptoms

• There are numerous physical signs associated with scoliosis. Patients tend to lean toward one side, have uneven shoulders, display a more prominent shoulder blade, hips may be uneven and the head may not appear centered on the body. The waist may seem uneven and ribcages may appear to be at different heights. The Adams Forward Bend Test is used to identify scoliosis without the use of X-rays. When an individual with scoliosis bends over, the abnormal symmetry of the truck may become apparent. X-rays are necessary to confirm scoliosis and to determine the severity of the curvature.

Causes

• Nearly 90 percent of all scoliosis cases are identified as idiopathic adolescent scoliosis. This type has no known cause and appears in teenagers. Scoliosis affects 2 percent of the female population and less than 1 percent of the male population. Individuals with a family history of scoliosis are at a greater risk as scoliosis tends to run in families. However, no genetic link is identifiable at this time.

Bracing

• In patients with a curvature under 30 degrees, routine observation is suggested. Doctors typically wait until it becomes obvious that the curves will continue to increase before an orthopedic brace is prescribed. Wearing a brace will not cure scoliosis, but it may stabilize the curve until bones mature. Body braces are worn approximately 23 hours a day until either the body is finished growing or the curves increase to the point where the brace is no longer effective.

Surgery

• Scoliosis surgery is extremely complicated and life altering. In individuals with curvatures above 40 or 50 degrees, spinal fusion is recommended. Fusing the spine involves attaching metal rods to either side of the spine with hooks, screws and wires to hold the spine into place while bone grafts fuse the vertebra together. Incisions are typically 12 to 18 inches long and the recovery process can take years. Surgery for scoliosis is extremely painful and permanently alters the way individuals feel and move. Spinal fusion is not an easy decision and should be made after much research into other options.