Scoliosis
#37
Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine, causing the spine to look like the shape of the letter “S” or “C”. It is usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
Symptoms
Symptoms of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders or waist, one hip raised abnormally high, the head not centered with the pelvis, or asymmetric ribs.
Types of Scoliosis
Congenital Scoliosis:
present at birth, may be in any location of the spine
often not diagnosed until symptoms appear
may worsen as the child grows
Idiopathic Scoliosis:
“idiopathic” means unknown cause
usually mild
may worsen as the child grows
most common type of scoliosis
Neuromuscular Scoliosis:
caused by a neurological or muscular disease (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy)
usually more severe than the other 2 types
Treatment
Factors such as where the curve is, how severe it is, and growth affect treatment options. For example, in mild cases, no treatment other than regular screening is necessary. For children who are still growing, braces are often used to prevent the curve from worsening. However, in more severe cases, surgery is needed to help straighten the curve.
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