Scoliosis - Understanding the Curve in Your Spine

 

Have you ever noticed someone with an uneven shoulder line or a ribcage that seems to protrude more on one side? This could be a sign of scoliosis, a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. While it might sound scary, scoliosis is actually quite common, affecting around 2-3% of adolescents in the United States. The treatment of this condition might require surgery and that may involve the use of Orthopaedic Implants.

In this blog, we'll delve into the world of scoliosis, exploring what it is, the different types, and the treatment options available.

What is Scoliosis?

Imagine your spine as a straight stack of blocks. In scoliosis, these blocks start to tilt to the side, creating a C-shaped or S-shaped curvature. This abnormal curve can occur in any part of the spine, but most commonly affects the middle (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) regions.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis?

Scoliosis often goes unnoticed, especially in its mild form. However, some telltale signs might indicate its presence:

- Uneven shoulders, with one appearing higher than the other

- A prominent ribcage on one side of the body

- One hip appears higher than the other

- A noticeable leaning to one side when standing

Remember, these signs don't necessarily guarantee scoliosis. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis, which usually involves a physical examination and X-rays.

What Are the Causes of Scoliosis?

Unfortunately, the exact cause of most scoliosis cases (known as idiopathic scoliosis) remains a puzzle. However, there are other types with known causes:

Congenital scoliosis

This arises due to problems with the development of the spine before birth.

Neuromuscular scoliosis

Certain neurological conditions like cerebral palsy can affect muscle control and lead to spinal curvature.

Degenerative scoliosis

This occurs in adults due to wear and tear of the spine.

What Treatments Are Available for Scoliosis?

The course of treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity of the curve, age of diagnosis, and the type of scoliosis. Depending on the condition, the doctor may suggest:

Observation

For mild curves, doctors might recommend monitoring the curve with regular checkups. This is especially common in growing children, as the curve might not progress.

Bracing

Wearing a back brace for several hours a day can help prevent the curve from worsening. This is typically used for adolescents with moderate curves.

Surgery

In severe cases where the curve significantly impacts lung function or continues to worsen despite bracing, surgery might be necessary to correct the curvature.

What it’s Like Living with Scoliosis?

Scoliosis doesn't have to hold you back from living a fulfilling life! With proper diagnosis and management, most people with scoliosis can participate in activities they enjoy. Following these tips can help manage scoliosis:

Maintain good posture

This helps distribute weight evenly and reduce strain on the spine.

Exercise regularly

Staying active strengthens the muscles that support your spine. However, consult a healthcare professional to ensure exercises are safe for your specific condition.

Maintain a healthy weight

The higher the weight more will be the pressure on your spine.

Join a support group

Connecting a support group and meeting with people who listen to & understand your concerns is helpful.

To learn more about advancements in the orthopedic industry and interact with industry experts, register for the OMTEC Orthopedic Conference 2024.