Scoliosis Condition

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition involving a curvature of the spine that can have a variety of effects on patients. The curvature most often happens during a child’s growth stage, in the period right before the onset of puberty. Most cases are relatively benign, with no visible impact on health or lifestyle, for some patients, however, the deformity in the spine can progress as children continue to grow, with advanced cases creating disability.

When diagnosed early, children are often fitted with braces to help prevent additional curvature. In some instances, surgery may be required to minimize the damage and even straighten out the spine. In all cases where this condition is identified, children are routinely monitored to ensure that the disorder doesn’t worsen.

What Causes this condition?

Medical professionals are not sure about the causes of most forms of scoliosis, other than heredity. However, researchers have identified some of the most common factors that can cause the less-commonly seen variations of the condition. Those causes include:

• Cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and other types of neuromuscular disorders
• Genetic birth defects that impact spinal bone development
• Spinal injuries that affect normal growth of the spine
• Infections in the spine

The condition is most commonly seen in patients who are just entering the final growth spurt before puberty and is equally common in both boys and girls. However, girls are more prone to developing severe curvature that requires treatment. While some hereditary factors have been noted, studies suggest that most young patients with the disorder come from families without any history of spinal curvature.

What Are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?

In mild cases of spinal curvature, there are usually no symptoms. Many patients simply live their lives without complications. For the unfortunate minority who suffer from more severe curvature, symptoms can include:

• Chronic back problems. Many adults who experienced spinal curvature since childhood end up experiencing chronic pain later in life.
• Changes in physical appearance. The condition can alter physical characteristics over time. Hips and shoulders can become uneven, and ribs can become more prominent. In addition, the curvature can create imbalances in the waist and trunk.
• Heart or lung damage. In the most severe cases, the patient’s rib cage can put pressure on the lungs and heart, impacting breathing and circulation.
• Muscle weakness or numbness
• Atypical reflexes

How We Can Help

While severe scoliosis often requires surgery to correct, milder forms can be effectively treated with osteopathic care. Through a combination of manipulation, soft tissue techniques, and other osteopathic treatment, our team can help to reduce pain and increase range of motion. In addition, we can provide vital information and education about home-based exercises, treatments, and lifestyle changes to improve your quality of life.