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Scoliosis is distinguished as an unusual curvature of the spine in the "coronal" plane. It is often diagnosed in childhood or early adolescence. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, around 2-3% of the population suffers from scoliosis problems. Scoliosis is often mild and does not require treatment. However, in some cases, the curve can worsen as the child grows. Severe scoliosis can cause pain, difficulty breathing, and problems with posture.
Types of Scoliosis
Scoliosis is classified into three types based on its aetiology:
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Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis that accounts for around 80% of all cases. It is generally diagnosed in early adolescence and is sometimes called Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
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Congenital Scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis is a type of scoliosis that is present at birth. It is caused by an embryological abnormality in one or more vertebrae and occurs anywhere along the spine.
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Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Neuromuscular scoliosis is a neurological or muscular scoliosis with a link to cerebral palsy, spinal cord damage, muscular atrophy, and bifida scoliosis. In Neuromuscular scoliosis, muscles become weak, spastic, or paralyzed. Without proper back muscular support, the spine can develop an abnormal curvature as it grows. This medical disorder develops quickly and usually necessitates surgical treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
Several signs may indicate your possibility of developing scoliosis. If any of the following symptoms and signs are detected, see a spine specialist as soon as possible:
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Uneven shoulders or waist.
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One shoulder blade is more prominent than the other.
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Uneven hips
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Back pain or stiffness.
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Fatigue or weakness in the back muscles.
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Difficulty breathing or respiratory problems (in severe cases).
Consult a spine hospital in Yeshwanthpur Bangalore if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.
Identifying Scoliosis
Diagnosing scoliosis requires a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. The doctor evaluates the spine to check for curvature, asymmetry, or abnormalities. Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRIs, determine the severity and type of scoliosis. X-rays provide detailed images of the spine and show the degree of curvature. MRIs identify any underlying conditions causing scoliosis, such as tumours or spinal cord abnormalities.
What Are the Treatment Options for Scoliosis?
The complexity of the curvature and the patient's age determines the treatment option.
Non-surgical Treatment Options
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Observation
In mild cases, the doctor monitors the curvature of the spine to see its progression.
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Bracing
A back brace is recommended to prevent the progression of the curvature.
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Physical Therapy
Exercise and physical therapy improve posture and reduce pain.
Surgical Treatment Options
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Spinal Fusion
This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae to straighten the spine.
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Spinal Instrumentation
This involves using metal rods, screws, or other devices to help straighten the spine.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Full recovery may take 6 to 12 months, depending on the treatment and the curvature's severity. During the recovery phase, you would be recommended to wear a brace or cast to support the spine. Physical therapy is vital as it improves flexibility, strength, and endurance. The patient also requires lifestyle changes to prevent injury.
Living with Scoliosis - What is to be Followed?
Lifestyle changes become a part of life which can help you have a healthy life after scoliosis. Support groups with a community of people who understand the challenges can help in offering emotional support and guidance.
These tips can be beneficial and adopted for the rest of life:
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Maintain good body posture.
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Stay active with low-impact exercises.
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Avoid heavy lifting or high-impact activities.
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Get enough rest and sleep.
Scoliosis is debilitating, but early identification and treatment prevent the condition from progressing and causing more severe symptoms. Regular screening ensures that signs of scoliosis are detected early and treated appropriately.
Consult the best spine surgeon in Yeshwanthpur Bangalore if you require treatment for Scoliosis.
FAQs
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Can scoliosis be cured?
There is no permanent cure for scoliosis, but treatment options manage the condition and prevent further curvature of the spine. Surgery is an ideal option for long-term relief.
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Will scoliosis affect my daily life?
For most people, the condition does not significantly impact daily life but can cause discomfort or difficulty breathing in severe cases.
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Will my children get scoliosis if I have it?
Scoliosis has been determined to be a primarily hereditary disorder around one in every three children whose parents have scoliosis will develop the condition. Doctors have identified multiple genes related to scoliosis but are unsure which ones cause it.
