What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is the side to side curvature of the spine. Every spine has a natural front to back curve. A side to side curve may look like an “S” (double curve) or a “C” (single curve).
Scoliosis is more than just a curve to the side. The scoliotic spine is also twisted or rotated.
What is the cause of scoliosis?
80% of scoliosis cases do not have a cause or they are “idiopathic”.
The most common causes of scoliosis in children are:
- Congenital deformities
- Genetic syndromes
- Neuromuscular problems
- Limb length inequality
- Cerebral Palsy
- Spina Bifida
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- Tumors
For more information on the causes of scoliosis call 314.454.5437 or Email Us.
What are the warning signs of scoliosis?
- Shoulder height difference
- Head is not centered over body
- Hip asymmetry
- Rib cage asymmetry
- Changes in look or textures of the skin overlying the spine ( hairy patches, color changes)
- Leaning of entire body on one side
What are the types of scoliosis?
- Infantile: 3 and under
- Juvenile: 3-9
- Adolescent: 10-18
- Adult: after skeletal maturity
What is the treatment for scoliosis?
1) Observation
- curves under 20 degrees require observation
- x-rays once every 6months until done growing
2) Bracing
- curves 25-45 degrees
- prevention of spine curvature worsening
- visits every 6 months to check spine
- brace wear is 20 to 24 hours a day until end of growth
- this is decided by the surgeon
- braces are a custom fit to your body
- a thin shirt can be worn underneath the brace to prevent skin breakdown
- the brace can be hidden under clothes
3) Spine Casting
4) Surgical
The type of treatment used will depend upon a variety of factors, including age, gender, degree of curvature, and presence of pain.
For more information on the treatment of scoliosis in children or to make an appointment call 314.454.5437 or Email Us.
What are the long-term effects of scoliosis?
- Back pain
- Cosmetic appearance
- Decreased lung capacity and exercise tolerance
