What is Scoliosis

scoliosisScoliosis is defined as a sideways curvature of the spine. It most often occurs during a growth spurt and before puberty. Cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy can cause this disease. However, most causes are unknown. As a matter of fact, 3% of adolescents have scoliosis.

Most cases are considered mild. Although as children grow, the condition can become more severe. And severe cases can be life-changing. In rare cases, an especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest. Therefore, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.

Children with the disease are monitored closely. In some cases, children may need to wear a brace in order to stop the curve from worsening. On the other hand, some may need surgery to keep the curve from becoming worse. This procedure is used to straighten out severe cases.

Symptoms of the Disease

Common signs and symptoms of scoliosis are as follows:

  • Uneven shoulders
  • One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
  • Uneven waist
  • One hip higher than the other

If the disease progresses and worsens, the spine will also rotate or twist. This occurs in addition to curving from side to side. Therefore, causing the ribs on one side of the body to stick out.

Causes of Scoliosis

Unfortunately, the cause is unknown. However, it is believed to involve hereditary factors since it runs in families. Although less common types could be caused by:

  • Neuromuscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
  • Birth defects affecting the development of the bones of the spine
  • Injuries to or infections of the spine

Scoliosis Treatment Options:

Treatment is on a case by case basis. Although there are certain guidelines for factors to be considered before decisions are made, such as:

  • Sex. Girls have a much higher risk of progression than do boys.
  • The severity of the curve. Larger curves are more likely to worsen with time.
  • Curve pattern. Double curves, also known as S-shaped curves, tend to worsen more often than do C-shaped curves.
  • Location of the curve. Curves located in the center (thoracic) section of the spine worsens more often than do curves in the upper or lower sections of the spine.
  • Maturity. If a child’s bones have stopped growing, the risk of curve progression is low. That also means that braces have the most effect in children whose bones are still growing.

Back Bracing

Braces are worn day and night. The effectiveness of the brace will increase the more it is worn. The most common type of brace is made of plastic and is contoured to conform to the body. The brace fits snuggly under the arms and around the ribcage. Making it nearly invisible under clothing!

Braces are discontinued after the bones stop growing. This typically occurs:

  • About two years after girls begin to menstruate
  • When boys need to shave daily
  • When there are no further changes in height

Surgery:

Scoliosis must be monitored closely since severe cases progress over time. A doctor might suggest surgery, however, to reduce the severity of the curve to prevent further progression. And spinal fusion is the most common type of surgery for this procedure.

A surgeon can also insert a rod if the disease is rapidly increasing at a young age. This rod is lengthened every 6-months or so, as the child grows.

 

If you or a loved one are experiencing scoliosis or suspect the disease, call us immediately at 888-409-8006. Offices conveniently located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and Coral Springs.