Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that most often is diagnosed in adolescents. While scoliosis can occur in people with conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most childhood scoliosis is unknown.

Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some curves worsen as children grow. Severe scoliosis can be disabling. An especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.

Children who have mild scoliosis are monitored closely, usually with X-rays, to see if the curve is getting worse. In many cases, no treatment is necessary. Some children will need to wear a brace to stop the curve from worsening. Others may need surgery to straighten severe curves.

Uneven shoulders.

One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other.

Uneven waist.

One hip higher than the other.

One side of the rib cage jutting forward.

A prominence on one side of the back when bending forward.

The cause of scoliosis often can’t be determined. Common causes that doctors may identify include:

cerebral palsy, a group of nervous system disorders that affect movement, learning, hearing, seeing, and thinking

muscular dystrophy, a group of genetic disorders that result in muscle weakness

birth defects that affect an infant’s spinal bones, such as spina bifida

spinal injuries or infections

Certain neuromuscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

Birth defects affecting the development of the bones of the spine.

Previous surgery on the chest wall as a baby.

Injuries to or infections of the spine.

Spinal cord abnormalities.

Risk factors for developing the most common type of scoliosis include:

Age. Signs and symptoms typically begin in adolescence.

Sex. Although both boys and girls develop mild scoliosis at about the same rate, girls have a much higher risk of the curve worsening and requiring treatment.

Family history. Scoliosis can run in families, but most children with scoliosis don't have a family history of the disease.

While most people with scoliosis have a mild form of the disorder, scoliosis may sometimes cause complications, including:

Breathing problems. In severe scoliosis, the rib cage may press against the lungs, making it more difficult to breathe.

Back problems. People who had scoliosis as children may be more likely to have chronic back pain as adults, especially if their abnormal curves are large and untreated.

Appearance. As scoliosis worsens, it can cause more noticeable changes — including uneven hips and shoulders, prominent ribs, and a shift of the waist and trunk to the side. Individuals with scoliosis often become self-conscious about their appearance.

Adult scoliosis cannot be prevented. In patients with idiopathic scoliosis, the cause of the condition is unknown. Degenerative scoliosis happens over time as the body ages. It is important to keep up with a regular low impact aerobic and core strengthening exercise program.