Description of Scoliosis Pain

Scoliosis is a skeletal disorder that causes abnormal curves and rotational deformities in the spine. In simpler terms, the body's spine has turned on its axis, similar to the way a corkscrew turns. Scoliosis is more common in girls, occurring approximately twice more often in girls than boys. It can be diagnosed at any age but it is more common in those over 10 years of age. It is hereditary but the severity of the condition will vary between generations.

• Spine

Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis

• Scoliosis has several symptoms. Some of them include: The shoulders not being aligned with one shoulder blade usually appearing higher than the other, an improperly centered head, an apparent prominent hip, improperly aligned rib cages, uneven waist, the skin above the spinal areas are dimpled, hairy, and discolored, and the entire body stature leaning towards one side.

  Scoliosis can properly be diagnosed and confirmed after tests such as an MRI, spinal radiograph, X-ray, or CT scan.

Physical Pain

• Most cases of scoliosis should not cause patients any pain. Even severe scoliosis is rarely painful. There are some severe cases, however, where patients experience pain in the spinal area, some internal organs, and pain in the back muscles. UCSF reports that patients sometimes describe it as a burning, stabbing pain in the back. This physical pain that develops from more advanced conditions should be monitored and possibly treated through surgery.

Psychosomatic Pain

• Those that have been diagnosed with scoliosis will generally not experience any pain but may eventually suffer from a psychological and emotional reaction to the diagnosis according to UCSF. The patient, out of fear and discomfort from discovering his condition, may be paranoid enough to let the mind tell the body to produce symptoms and painful effects due to his expectations. This form of pain may be treated using prescribed drugs. Therapy may also be a big help since it can target the emotional and psychological causes of the pain.

Recommendations for Patients and Doctors

• It is very important for doctors to be straightforward when confronting their patients with their scoliosis condition in order to eliminate uncertainty and even fear. Peer and family support can be very beneficial for patients during their treatment. With a proper understanding of their condition, most patients are able to avoid developing painful symptoms.

Treatment

• Although scoliosis should generally have no pain, cases where back pain is present may be treated and managed with physical therapy, exercises such as yoga, and massages. These therapies are not a cure for the condition but will provide comfort for the patient

  Braces may also be used to align the spine. Some braces should be worn for up to 24 hours per day and may only be detached when bathing. Others you are required to wear only during the night. Again, braces will not cure scoliosis but will only aid in slowing down or stopping the curved spine from worsening.