Although your spine holds your body in an upright posture, it isn't as straight as an arrow. It actually needs some amount of curving down the back to allow you to maintain balance and move properly, according to KidsHealth, part of the Nemours Foundation. However, your spine shouldn't curve from side to side. Scoliosis, which affects about three in every 100 people, is abnormal curvature of the spine that causes the spine to create an "S" or "C" shape, according to KidsHealth. Scoliosis most often occurs during the growth spurt before puberty.
Causes
Most cases of scoliosis are known as idiopathic scoliosis, which means doctors don't know what caused the condition. However, sometimes scoliosis is caused by underlying health conditions, such as a neuromuscular disorder, according to Optum Health. However, doctors are aware that scoliosis often runs in families and that girls are eight times more likely to develop scoliosis than boys, according to the Center for Young Women's Health at Children's Hospital Boston. Contrary to what some may believe, external factors, such as posture and exercise, have no connection to scoliosis, says Optum Health.
Signs and Symptoms
Many cases of scoliosis are detectable only upon close examination. However, scoliosis may be easily noticeable in cases that cause a teen's body to tilt to one side, have an uneven waistline, have ribs that stick out farther on just one side or have one shoulder blade that is higher than the other, according to KidsHealth. Teens with severe scoliosis may experience breathing problems, impaired heart function and pain and joint damage in adulthood, says KidsHealth.
Diagnosis
If you suspect that you might have scoliosis, your doctor will examine your body closely---potentially by ordering an X-ray---to determine whether you have a problematic curve. If she determines that you have significant curvature, she will likely refer you to a doctor known as an orthopedist, who will measure your curvature in degrees and decide what treatment is needed, says KidsHealth.
Observation or Bracing
If you have a mild curve---usually a curve that is under 25 degrees---you will most likely need no treatment, but your doctor may ask to see you every four to six months to observe your spine until you stop growing, according to Optum Health. If you have a moderate curve---one that is over 25 to 30 degrees---you may be given a brace that will help prevent your curve from growing worse, says Optum Health.
Surgery
If you have severe scoliosis---a spinal curve that is over 45 to 50 degrees---or if your scoliosis progresses despite your wearing a brace, the doctor may recommend surgery, according to Optum Health. The surgery involves connecting at least two vertebrae to make your backbone straight and then placing a permanent implant, such as a rod, into it to keep your spine straight. According to KidsHealth, you will need to heal from surgery for about a month before you're able to go back to school, and you will gradually be allowed to resume normal activities over the next 12 months.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Scoliosis -- Treatments and Drugs
- Optum Health: Curvature of the Spine - Could Your Child Have Scoliosis?
- Center for Young Women's Health at Children's Hospital Boston: Scoliosis and Spinal Deformities
- Spine Universe: Scoliosis: Curvature of the Spine and Surgical Treatment of this Disorder
- KidsHealth: Scoliosis
