Scoliosis is a medical condition defined as a lateral and abnormal curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or greater. The traditionally normal spine appears straight; however, scoliosis affects the spine and shows evidence of a deformed curvature of the spinal bones. In other words, scoliosis would cause a spine to look similar to letters “S” or “C”. Scoliosis also gives the appearance that an individual is leaning on one side. With that said, it is important to differentiate scoliosis and poor posturing.
This condition is quite common amongst adolescents (ages 10-15). Furthermore, six to eight of every scoliosis case involves females. Of every 1,000 children, 3 to 5 develop malformations of the spine that are considered large enough to necessitate treatment. Scoliosis is also hereditary.
Scoliosis can also be accompanied by lordosis or kyphosis.
The Types of Scoliosis and Causes:
Scoliosis is typically classified within three categories.
Congenial Scoliosis – This type of scoliosis refers to the abnormal development of the spine that is present at birth. Congenial Scoliosis may be caused by birth defects that affect the formation of the vertebrae (spine bones). Congenial Scoliosis may be associated with other birth defects in other areas of the body and has a wide range of severity, so it is highly recommended for patients to undergo screening for these conditions.
Neuromuscular Scoliosis – This type of scoliosis refers to scoliosis that is invoked by means of a neurological or muscular disease condition. In other words, Neuromuscular Scoliosis may be caused by muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, myopathy or spina bifida.
Idiopathic Scoliosis – This type of scoliosis refers to the abnormal curvature of the spine that occurs without an underlying and definitive cause.
Other causes:
- Spinal Injuries
- Infections to the Spine
Symptoms
- Leaning to one side
- Uneven waist
- Uneven shoulder height
- Uneven hip height or position
- Uneven shoulder blade height or position
- The head isn’t centered with the rest of the body
Treatment
Treatment options vary depending on the type of scoliosis, the severity, the age of the patient and associated conditions or diseases. Regardless, with the finest physicians and equipment at our disposal, HEALTHPOINTE can perform unrivaled treatment for all your scoliosis treatment needs. Our goals consist of diagnosing and properly treating your scoliosis and prevent deformity by providing the treatment that is most suitable for each patient. Treatments may comprise of:
Radiology and Physical Examination: The most common treatment for abnormal malformations of the spine consists of repeated radiology and examinations. This will be necessary in order for physicians to fully evaluate and determine whether the spine will continue to deform and curve.
Bracing & Wheelchair Modification: These non-surgical treatments involve bracing over the pelvic region or wheelchair to support the patient’s back and spine formation. These treatments may be necessary when individuals suffer from scoliosis that continues to curve without any sign of improvement. The type of brace and the duration of the time utilizing the brace will ultimately depend on the severity of the spinal deformity. These treatments may assist patients with mobility, seating and function, and may overall delay surgery. This treatment is used to control, but not fully cure the spinal malformation.
Physical Therapy: Physical Therapy will be utilized to amplify or otherwise repair individuals physical functioning. This will comprise of exercise programs and other supplementary therapies to focus on the overall treatment of the pain and muscular symptoms associated with scoliosis. Click here for further information on Physical Therapy.
Spinal Surgery: Spinal Surgery, or spinal fusion to be exact, is the most commonly utilized treatment for nearly all types of scoliosis. It is highly recommended when the curvature of the spine protrudes beyond the normal structure, and when bracing and physical therapy fail to improve the progression of the spine. Spinal fusion will be used to stabilize the curvature of the spine, while improving balance, structure and function in the process. Click here for further information on Spinal Surgery.