Patients with scoliosis have curving of the spine, which can lean to the side or away from the middle, according to MedlinePlus. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases explains that 80 to 85 percent of patients have idiopathic scoliosis, meaning the cause is unknown. Certain conditions can contribute to the onset of other types of scoliosis. Patients with scoliosis have different treatment options.
Birth Defects
Patients with certain birth defects can have scoliosis. For example, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases points out that hemivertebra, in which one side of a vertebra is malformed, can cause scoliosis. A fusion of the ribs that occurs during the pregnancy can also affect the curvature of the spine. Patients with spina bifida, a condition in which the neural tube does not fully close, can develop scoliosis.
Neuromuscular Diseases
Neuromuscular diseases, which affect the motor nerves, can cause the curving of the spine. These conditions can cause muscle weakness or paralysis. Cerebral palsy, a condition that results from brain damage early in life, can cause scoliosis. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases notes that poliomyelitis, also called polio, can contribute to abnormal curving. Muscular dystrophy, an inherited muscular disorder, is another possible cause.
Arthritis, Tissue Diseases and Tumors
Other conditions can cause scoliosis in patients. For example, MayoClinic.com explains that having one leg longer than the other can lead to scoliosis. Arthritis can damage the spinal cord, leading to the abnormal curvature. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases adds that metabolic and connective tissue disorders can also cause scoliosis. Other causes of scoliosis include appendicitis, rheumatic disease and tumors.
Types of Braces
MayoClinic.com notes that patients who are still growing and have mild scoliosis can use braces, which they wear during the day and night. Scoliosis patients can use one of two braces: an underarm brace or a Milwaukee brace.
The underarm brace, also called a low-profile brace, starts under the arms and covers the body down to the hips. When worn under clothing, the brace becomes invisible. This type of brace does not help patients with scoliosis of the upper spine. The other brace option, the Milwaukee brace, is a full-torso brace with a neck ring. Patients do not need to wear their scoliosis brace when they stop growing.
Surgical Options
If patients have severe scoliosis, they may require surgery. MayoClinic.com points out that patients can undergo spinal fusion, in which the doctor joins two vertebrae together. This option reduces abnormal curvature. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases adds that the doctor may use implants after the surgery to stabilize the spine.
