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Scoliosis is a medical condition that refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine. This condition can affect individuals of any age, though it most commonly occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty. Scoliosis can manifest in various forms and severities, ranging from mild to severe cases that can be debilitating (Negrini et al., 2018).
The spine typically has natural curves when viewed from the side, but when it is viewed from the front or back, it should appear straight. In scoliosis, the spine curves to the side in a "C" or "S" shape. The degree of curvature can be measured by the Cobb angle, which is determined via standing X-rays. A curve is defined as scoliosis when the Cobb angle is at least 10 degrees (Weinstein, Dolan, & Wright, 2013).
There are several types of scoliosis, categorized based on their causes. The most common type is idiopathic scoliosis, which accounts for about 80% of cases and occurs in individuals without a known cause. Idiopathic scoliosis is further divided into subcategories based on the age at which it develops: infantile, juvenile, adolescent, or adult scoliosis (Weinstein et al., 2013). Congenital scoliosis is present at birth and is due to a malformation of the spine during development in the womb. Neuromuscular scoliosis is associated with neurological or muscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. Lastly, degenerative scoliosis occurs later in life as a result of spinal degeneration (Weinstein, Dolan, & Wright, 2013).
The manifestation of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, a single shoulder blade protruding more than the other, uneven waist, or one hip that appears higher. However, not all individuals exhibit visible signs, especially in the case of mild curves. The symptoms can range from nonspecific back pain to pronounced spinal deformity and, in severe cases, can impact pulmonary and cardiac function due to the compression of internal organs (Negrini et al., 2018).
The treatment of scoliosis varies based on the severity of the curvature, the cause, and the risk of progression. Observation is typically recommended for those with mild curves. For growing children and adolescents with moderate curves, bracing is a common non-surgical treatment option aimed at preventing progression of the curve. The efficacy of bracing in preventing progression of scoliosis curves has been supported by studies including the BrAIST study (Weinstein, Dolan, & Wright, 2013).
Surgical intervention may be considered when the Cobb angle exceeds a certain threshold, usually around 40 to 50 degrees, or in cases where conservative treatments have failed and the curve continues to progress (Negrini et al., 2018). The most common surgical procedure for scoliosis is spinal fusion, which aims to straighten and fuse the vertebrae into a single solid bone. While surgery can significantly reduce the curvature and prevent future worsening, it comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, and potential for nerve damage.
Moreover, ongoing research continues to shed light on the etiology and optimal management strategies for scoliosis. Genetic studies have identified several genes associated with idiopathic scoliosis, suggesting a hereditary component to the condition (Gorman et al., 2012). Meanwhile, advancements in orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation techniques are improving outcomes for individuals undergoing treatment for scoliosis.
Understanding scoliosis is critical for early detection and appropriate management. Primary care physicians, pediatricians, and orthopedic specialists play crucial roles in monitoring at-risk individuals, particularly during periods of rapid growth. While scoliosis can present challenges, with appropriate care, many individuals with the condition can lead active and fulfilling lives.
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References
Negrini, S., Aulisa, A. G., Aulisa, L., Circo, A. B., de Mauroy, J. C., Durmala, J., ... & Grivas, T. B. (2018). 2016 SOSORT guidelines: orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth. Scoliosis and spinal disorders, 13(1), 1-19.
Weinstein, S. L., Dolan, L. A., & Wright, J. G. (2013). Effects of bracing in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 369(16), 1512-1521.
Gorman, K. F., Julien, C., Moreau, A., Cullup, T., Boriani, S., Hurtig, M., ... & Giampietro, P. F. (2012). The ciliary proteome database: an integrated community resource for the genetic and functional dissection of cilia. Nature genetics, 44(9), 962-969.
Kuru, T., Yeldan, ?., Dereli, E. E., zdinler, A. R., Dikici, F., olak, ?., & Duruz, M. T. (2016). The efficacy of three-dimensional Schroth exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomised controlled clinical trial. Clinical rehabilitation, 30(2), 181-190.
" (How is it diagnosed?) The second theory that has support among medical practitioners is that "...postnatal external pressures are exerted on the spine after birth, perhaps due to an infant being positioned on his/her back for extended periods of time in the crib." (How is it diagnosed?) This theory is supported by the high incidence of this condition in Europe where there is a tradition of carrying infants on the
The parents should also be informed about relevant data related to the risk factors involved with the diagnosis of scoliosis. Second, the patient should be monitored over the next year. If the scoliosis shows no sign of improving or has worsened, then treatment interventions may be warranted. The most effective treatment intervention for adolescent scoliosis is bracing. "Bracing appears to prevent about 20% to 40% of appropriately braced curves from
Understanding Scoliosis: A Common Spinal Condition Introduction Scoliosis is a common spinal condition characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. This condition can affect individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence when the spine is rapidly growing. The curvature of the spine in individuals with scoliosis can appear as an "S" or "C" shape when viewed from the back. While the exact cause of scoliosis is
disease (Scoliosis ) (name, location, pathophysiology) Scoliosis is actually a derivative of the ancient Greek term skoliosis "obliquity, bending" (Online Etymology Dictionary) Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine looking somewhat like the letter C. Or S. And affects approximately 7 million people in the United States (Scoliosis Research Society website). It is most common during childhood and particularly in girls. Scoliosis is called different names depending on the stage of
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