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Scoliosis is a lateral deformity of the spine in which the normal spinal curve takes an “S” or “C” shape when viewed from the back. It can manifest anywhere along the spinal cord, but it predominantly impacts the thoracic and lumbar regions. Scoliosis is not a disease but a condition which can be classified as both mild and severe.
This month marks the Scoliosis Awareness Month! So, stand tall and join the fight to raise awareness and empower those living with scoliosis.
Synopsis
The Prevalence of Scoliosis
Scoliosis is not a very common disorder. Only around 2-3% of the population worldwide are diagnosed with this issue. Such a low percentage is another reason why its awareness is also compromised. Scoliosis mostly affects adolescents between the ages of 10 to 16 years. Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent, with around 80% of all cases.
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To learn more about this spinal disorder, you can talk to a professional spinal surgeon.
Understanding the Types of Scoliosis
Here is a brief overview of the types of scoliosis.
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Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is the most common type, representing 80% of all such occurrences. Its exact cause is not understood and generally develops during adolescence.
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Congenital Scoliosis: Arises from birth defects that affect the spinal column due to improper formation of the vertebrae.
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Neuromuscular Scoliosis: This is connected to several neuromuscular disorders like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. This type tends to be more severe and may even progress faster.
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Degenerative Scoliosis: Found in adults because of the deterioration of discs and joints in the spinal area, usually caused by ageing.
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Functional Scoliosis: A temporary curvature of the spine (curve spine scoliosis) that may be caused by a pathologic condition such as limb length inequality, muscle contraction, or spasm.
The most accurate diagnosis of your specific type can only be determined by a medical specialist. Make sure to consult them as soon as possible.
What are the Causes of Scoliosis?
The reasons behind the most commonly detected scoliosis - idiopathic scoliosis - remain unknown. However, doctors believe that certain genetic conditions can be a key contributing factor. The causes of the other types are identifiable.
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Congenital Scoliosis: Vertebral abnormalities present at birth are behind the development of congenital scoliosis. These abnormalities don’t allow the vertebrae to form normally, resulting in a curved spine as the child grows.
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Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with conditions that affect muscle coordination, weakening the muscles supporting the spine. This causes the spine to take an abnormal curve. Cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy are some conditions that can cause this type of scoliosis.
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Degenerative Scoliosis: Mostly common in adults, it is linked to ageing and mechanical wear and tear of the spine where the discs between the vertebrae become dehydrated and compressed over time. This can lead to spinal misalignment and scoliosis curvature.
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Functional Scoliosis: A rare form of scoliosis, conditions such as muscle spasms or leg length differences can be the root cause of this type of scoliosis. Unlike other types, functional scoliosis doesn’t progress and patients experience no pain.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Scoliosis can manifest with a wide array of symptoms, which can include:
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Visible Curve: It is the most common symptom of scoliosis - the spine is noticeably curved from side to side when parents or doctors view it from the back.
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Uneven Shoulders or Hips: One shoulder or hip is seen higher than the other. The uneven rotation of the spine causes this.
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Rib Hump: When you bend forward at the waist, one side of the ribs becomes more prominent than the other.
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Asymmetry: The waist or back can seem uneven on one side.
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Pain: Scoliosis can sometimes cause back pain. The pain becomes worse if you’re engaged in prolonged standing or activities.
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Breathing Problems: A major curve in the spine can impact lung function (to varying degrees) by compressing the chest cavity, thereby making it difficult to breathe.
An expert spine specialist will perform certain physical examinations to confirm if you have scoliosis. The procedures usually include different imaging techniques, like MRIs or X-rays. This enables them to evaluate the extent of your curvature.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for scoliosis depends on the severity and progression of the curve and the age of the patient.
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Observation: If the curves are mild and are unlikely to progress, then a regular physical checkup will usually be sufficient.
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Bracing: Used mostly in adolescents with mild to moderate curves in an effort to minimise its progression as they age. Scoliosis, however, does not have a cure through bracing, but the practice stabilises the spine so that it does not get worse over time.
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Physical Therapy: Aerobic exercises to strengthen the muscles of the back and maintain posture.
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Surgery: Typically used for severe cases or when other pain management approaches prove to be ineffective. The treatments that can be offered include spinal fusion as well as other surgical procedures aimed at correcting and stabilising the spine.
Consult our spine care hospital in Bangalore if you need scoliosis treatment.
Preventing Scoliosis
As of now, there are no foolproof prevention methods for scoliosis. Your best bet is to detect the condition as early as possible and go ahead with the treatment plans as outlined by the doctor.
Certain strengthening exercises for the muscles and back can help. These are usually stretching movements. However, do not include them in your regimen by yourself. Consult a skilled spine surgeon at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore, and practice with the ones that are suitable for your specific health condition. These exercises are believed to keep the curve of your spine from getting worse.
Future Predictions
There are new possibilities for scoliosis management in the future, specifically in diagnostics and treatment. Genetics plays a role in the development of scoliosis, meaning that molecular biology could eventually help explain why certain individuals develop scoliosis and how the condition works, thus being useful for developing individual treatments. Furthermore, the development of non-invasive therapies and surgeries also remains ongoing, thereby providing better living conditions to persons with scoliosis.
FAQ's
If the scoliosis is detected as mild or moderate, it can be controlled with physiotherapy or bracing. It is important to know that surgeries are generally the last resort. The doctor will only recommend surgery when the problem is severe, or nothing else is working.
Idiopathic scoliosis has certain hereditary factors; however, there is controversy about the exact pattern of inheritance of the disorder. The occurrence of this disease in the family may enhance the chances of developing the condition.
Scoliosis affects the body's structure and position; in some cases, pain and breathing problems may occur. It can also have an impact on the patient’s self-image and life experience; thus, a timely diagnosis and treatment are recommended.
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