Curved Spine - Scoliosis Information

SCOLIOSIS means curvature of the spine from an I to a C or S shape. Normally when standing your spine forms a straight line from under your head down. In scoliosis this line forms a curve when seen from the back and can cause a pelvis tilt, uneven shoulders, or ribs that stick out on one side. Scoliosis is more common in girls and occurs most often during the growth spurt in early teenage years.

Unequal pull of back muscles connected to the spine or deformity in development of one or more bones of the spine is thought responsible. Some types are inherited.

Signs of Scoliosis

• One shoulder higher than the next.
• Ribs sticking out one side of the chest.
• Different arm lengths.
• One hip higher than the other.
• Different leg lengths.

Small scoliosis curves are rarely noticeable, cause no problems, and do not need treatment. However, small curves can grow into large curves so if you have scoliosis and are still growing, you will be followed by your doctor until an adult when bone growth stops and their is no further risk of progression. At each visit the degree of curvature is measured by your doctor and compared with the last. If the trend is increasing you may be required to wear a brace until your back stops growing as an adult which prevents your spine from slipping out of shape any further. If this doesn't work and your spine is badly misshapen then surgery may be done fusing parts and wedging backbones of the spine to stop progression and straighten the spine.

In females, severe lower back scoliosis can cause problems in childbirth but generally does not lower your chances of getting pregnant. When pregnant, your obstetrician will make an assessment of your pelvis to see whether your baby will be able to make it through the birth canal; if not, a cesarean section will be arranged at term.

Scoliosis can lead to backaches as an adult especially if you do strenuous physical work. This is because the alteration in anatomy leads to muscular imbalance made more obvious with heavy use. Physiotherapy, massage, chiropractor and home exercise physical modalities can be very beneficial for flare ups. Exceptional cases may require a daily anti-inflammatory or stronger pain killers.

DoctorSecrets! "One in every ten people have a mild scoliosis. And most will never know!"

Scoliosis for Kids

 

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