The spine normally sits straight in the middle of the back in the body. An abnormal curvature of the spine occurs with scoliosis. The spine curves sideways from its middle location. Scoliosis curves are classified by their location in the spine and they can occur in various combinations. Scoliosis can appear at any age and it occurs in both males and females. The exact cause for scoliosis remains unknown, but certain diseases and congenital defects can contribute to its development.
Cervical
The New York Times Health Guide says that a doctor uses a scoliosis screening test called the forward bending test to help determine the types of curves. The test involves a person bending over with straightened knees, reaching toward their feet or the floor. The doctor examines the back and then determines the type of curve from its location on the spine. A person with scoliosis can develop a curvature of the spine in the cervical, or neck area. People who have cervical scoliosis tend to have one shoulder blade that appears higher than the other because the condition causes the bones of the spine in that area to turn or rotate, reports the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Thoracic
A thoracic curvature of the spine involves a curve in the chest area. A thoracic curvature can cause a person’s body to tilt to the left or right. Thoracic curvature that exceeds 50 degrees can lead to long-term problems, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Deterioration of the scoliotic curve can occur if it’s left untreated, leading to a diminished lung capacity and the development of lung disease.
Lumbar
A doctor may suspect scoliosis in the lumbar area of the spine, or the lower area of the back, if the pelvis appears tilted or the hips look uneven, states The New York Times Health Guide. A person may notice that they have uneven hips when they put on their pants, such as one pant leg appearing shorter than the other, notes KidsHealth.org. A person with a lumbar curvature might experience fatigue in the spine after prolonged sitting or standing, a backache or low-back pain. The wear and tear to the soft tissue of the spine bones leads to persistent pain if the lumbar curvature isn't treated.
