Scoliosis is a disorder in which the spine curves abnormally from side
to side. It can affect any part of the spine but the most common regions
are the chest area (thoracic scoliosis) or the lower part of the back
(lumbar scoliosis). Scoliosis can affect people of all ages but most commonly
affects children from 10-12 or in their early teens. The majority of younger
children with scoliosis usually require no treatment, as the condition
resolves on its own as the child grows. However adults can also be affected
by scoliosis as well.
In most cases (85%), the cause of scoliosis is unknown (or idiopathic).
The other 15% usually fall into two groups:
- Nonstructural (functional): This type of scoliosis is a temporary condition
when the spine is otherwise normal. The curvature occurs as the result
of another problem such or as having one leg shorter than the other.
- Structural: In this type of scoliosis, the spine is not normal. The curvature
is caused by another disease process such as a birth defect, muscular
dystrophy, metabolic diseases, connective tissue disorders, or Marfan's syndrome.
The symptoms of scoliosis vary from case to case however normal symptoms
- Shoulders may not be the same height
- Head may not be centered above the pelvis
- Ribcage is not symmetrical; ribs may be at different heights
- One shoulder blade may be higher and more prominent than the other
- One hip may be more prominent than the other
- May walk with a rolling gait
- Clothes do not hang properly
- Person may lean to one side
- Legs may be of uneven lengths.
- A bulge may be present on one side of the chest
- The baby may be consistently lying curved to one side
Diagnosis for scoliosis begins with a complete review of your medical history
to determine if the scoliosis may be hereditary, when you first noticed
it, and symptoms, etc. If a child is of school age and their pediatrician
is suspicious, they may repeat the exam in four to six months to look
for any change. Most children do no need to be treated for scoliosis when
the curvature is mild.
A physical exam will also be done to evaluate the spine visually and the
doctor may have the patient stand straight forward with the feet straight
ahead and the palms inward. With the knees locked, the patient slowly
bends over at the waist and tries to touch their toes. The doctor can
get a visual appearance of the spine through the skin.
X-rays may be necessary in order to measure the curvature. Depending on
the degree of the curve and whether it worsens over time, the doctor may
recommend further treatment. Our experts at SCCNS see patients from 12
on up and can help these patients with different treatment options.