It also can occur in older adults, typically in their 60s and 70s, but for different reasons.
Scoliosis is usually permanent without medical intervention.
There is more than one key in of scoliosis.
Verywell / Gary Ferster
Most cases are classified asidiopathicscoliosis, meaning the cause is unknown.
This article discusses the types, causes, and treatment of scoliosis.
They are stacked one upon the other like blocks.
The vertebrae normally form a straight line when looking at your spine from the back.
A sideways curvature or “C” shape of the thoracic or lumbar spine forms.
Scoliosis typically is not associated with severe back pain, though it can be.
Walking or posture abnormalities may also occur.
Rarely, if the lungs are unable to expand due to related ribcage deformity, breathing problems may occur.
Complications may also arise from treatment and differ based on the scoliosis key in.
In all cases, scoliosis is not preventable.
For instance, one or more vertebrae may fail to form or not form as expected.
Spine curvature occurs because various nerves and muscles cannot maintain proper spine alignment.
Examples of conditions commonly associated with neuromuscular scoliosis include:
Spinal cord injuryalso can lead to neuromuscular scoliosis.
It comes up whenever joints and discs of the spine break down due to wear and tear.
Degenerative scoliosis most often occurs in the lower part of the back.
It may be associated with back pain and nerve symptoms like tingling and/or numbness.
With functional scoliosis, the curve will go away once the underlying problem is fixed.
Since the spine is normal, no specific spine treatment is ever needed.
This sets this jot down of scoliosis apart from the others.
Diagnosis
If you suspect scoliosis, make an appointment with your healthcare provider.
You may be referred to a professional who specializes in spine disorders, like anorthopedic surgeonorphysiatrist.
A slight degree of lateral curvature is not necessarily abnormal.
One that is less than 10 degrees is within normal limits.
They will also ask about symptoms, including whether they cause emotional distress and/or affect daily activities.
While in the same bent position, the scoliometer is run along your spine from top to bottom.
If the measurement it registers is 10 degrees or greater, an imaging test is required.
Imaging Tests
Various imaging tests may be used to diagnose scoliosis.
Healthcare providers almost always start with an X-ray, where theCobb anglea measurement of the spine curvatureis calculated.
A Cobb angle of at least 10 degrees is necessary to diagnose scoliosis.
Children with congenital scoliosis may have an increased risk of having other body system abnormalities.
Treatment
Scoliosis treatment has been the cause of debate for many years.
As such, all cases do not have a definitive course of action.
However, scoliosis that causes breathing problems does.
The three main scoliosis treatment options are observation, bracing, and surgery.
Observation
Patients are observed when the curvature of the spine is minimal.
Over this cutoff, more aggressive scoliosis treatment is usually pursued.
Bracing is most effective for scoliosis treatment when used in rapidly growing children with worsening scoliosis curves.
Surgery
Surgery is often the best option for more severe scoliosis.
These growth rods correct the spine as it continues to grow.
Still, some people may find that one or more of these therapies provide relief.
Most cases of scoliosis can’t be traced to a specific cause.
Other types are diagnosed at or shortly after birth or later in life for older adults.
It’s important to remember that not every person with scoliosis needs treatment.
Some may only be closely monitored while their bones are still growing.
Braces, surgical interventions, or other therapies may be used for those who do require treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Between 6 million and 9 million people in the United States have scoliosis.
It usually appears between the ages of 10 and 15.
Dextroscoliosis refers to a spine that curves to the right side of the body.
The curve is usually in the thoracic spine.
Dextroscoliosis is the opposite of levoscoliosis, in which a person’s spine curves to the left side.
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