Every year in June, National Scoliosis Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of the rising need for public education, early detection, and learn about scoliosis and its prevalence in the community. An abnormal lateral curving of the spine, frequently resembling a S or C, is known as scoliosis. For scoliosis to be considered, the posterior-anterior radiograph should show at least 10° of spinal angulation accompanied with vertebral rotation. Mostly, it is diagnosed in early adolescence or childhood. Although children aged eleven and older are the most common age group who can get scoliosis, anyone can get it. People who already have conditions, for example, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, may get affected by scoliosis.
Even though the reason for childhood scoliosis is unknown, many researchers believe that combination of several factors can contribute to developing the disease. In addition, idiopathic scoliosis affects more girls than boys. If your brother, sister, or parent has scoliosis, you are more likely to as well. The common symptoms of Scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, uneven waist, or One side of the rib cage jutting forward. If signs of Scoliosis are noticed, it is better to see a doctor for diagnosis. Physical examination, X-ray, MRI, or CT scan can diagnose scoliosis.
There are different types of Scoliosis, and Congenital Scoliosis is one of them. When a misshapen vertebra occurs, spinal curvature develops, which is known as Congenital Scoliosis. In the case of this type of Scoliosis, surgery is only considered if a curvature is clearly worsening, and the child is suffering persistent deformity and the possibility of future pain. When it comes to Idiopathic Scoliosis, which is another type, mostly it appears at the start of puberty, typically about age 10. We also know that it can worsen with growth, therefore scoliosis in a child who still has growth potential should worry us the most. A child who has an underlying neuromuscular disorder is more likely to develop scoliosis, also known as neuromuscular scoliosis. The wearing of a scoliosis brace may halt or stop the problem from getting worse in a child who has neuromuscular scoliosis. When the curve reaches a 50-degree point, surgical intervention is suggested. These curves will progressively develop over time, resulting to a torso imbalance. Beyond 80 degrees, breathing difficulties arise as the lungs’ capacity shrinks. In some circumstances, physical therapy might help to strengthen the muscles. With therapy, most people with scoliosis can live normal, active lives as this condition often does not cause a lot of pain or any other health issues, and it normally stays the same once you stop growing. Furthermore, support groups might be beneficial. For more information on Scoliosis click the link below:
