Scoliosis

Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine. Scoliosis is very rare in children under the age of 10, but is relatively common among children and young adults and is most often discovered during the teen and preteen years. Most often scoliosis is idiopathic, meaning that the cause is unknown, and is functional - the spine is still structurally sound although it is curved. The effected child's movement is preserved and they do not feel pain. Occasionally, scoliosis is a symptom of a another disease such as Marfan's Syndrome or cerebral palsy.

Treatments are decided on a case-by-case basis and the patient should be evaluated by an orthopedic spine specialist. The doctor will make a recommendation based on several factors, including the degree of curvature and the child’s skeletal maturity. Bracing is indicated when the spine’s curvature is measured between 25 and 40 degrees. If the patient still has a couple more years of expected growth, the doctor may recommend bracing for a smaller curve, such as 20 to 29 degrees.  However, Bracing is only effective when the child is growing.  A few years after the onset of puberty, the skeleton has matured to the point that bracing will no longer be an effective treatment. In girls, this is usually measured as the year following the onset of her menstrual cycle. However, prior to that time, bracing can be effective in stopping the progression of the curve.When a curve is greater than 40 degrees, surgical intervention may be recommended. The surgery uses rods and screws to maneuver a person’s spine back into a straight position.

Scoliosis tends to run in families, so children whose brother or sister, or parents or another relative, has scoliosis should be monitored for the condition as well. Early intervention ensures the best results. Over the years, some patients do fine with scoliosis. A curve of 10 degrees or less is not that to place the patient at any increased risk for back pain. Sometimes with age, the curve can worsen and can be associated with pain or some difficulty with deep breathing.

Not all treatments for scoliosis are effective. Studies have not found chiropractic services, electrical stimulation, or nutritional supplements to be effective treatments for the condition. Exercise is safe and a good idea, although it has not been shown to change the natural history of scoliosis. If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, it’s best to see a physician and to consider proven treatments. Talking with your doctor about your own personal medical history and situation can help ensure the best treatment possible.