Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways instead of being straight. While scoliosis can affect people of all ages, it usually develops during the growth spurt that occurs just before puberty.

The condition can cause discomfort, pain, and even breathing problems in severe cases. If you’re concerned that you or someone you love has scoliosis, continue reading to learn about diagnosis and treatment options.

Diagnosis of Scoliosis

Doctors use a variety of methods to diagnose scoliosis. The most common way is a physical examination, where the doctor asks the patient to stand and then checks for any asymmetry in the shoulders, hips, or waist.

If the doctor suspects scoliosis, they may order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and measure the degree of the spinal curvature. In some cases, the doctor may also order an MRI or CT scan to rule out any other underlying causes of the spinal curvature.

Types of Scoliosis

There are different types of scoliosis, depending on the cause of the spinal curvature.

Idiopathic Scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis, accounting for about 80% of all cases. Idiopathic scoliosis has no known cause, but it tends to run in families.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by conditions that affect the muscles and nerves, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

Congenital Scoliosis

Congenital scoliosis is caused by an abnormality in the development of the spine before birth.

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Treatment Options for Scoliosis

The treatment of scoliosis depends on the severity of the spinal curvature and the age of the patient.

Observation

If the spinal curvature is mild, the doctor may simply observe the patient and monitor the progression of the scoliosis to make sure it does not worsen over time.

Bracing

If the spinal curvature is moderate, the doctor may recommend a brace to prevent it from getting worse. The brace is worn during the day and taken off at night.

The brace needs to be worn for several years until the patient’s bones have finished growing.

Surgery

If the spinal curvature is severe and getting worse, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature. Surgery involves the use of metal rods, screws, and wires to straighten the spine and hold it in place.

The patient usually needs to wear a brace for several months after the surgery to support the healing of the spine.

Conclusion

Scoliosis is a common condition that affects the spine’s proper alignment. It can cause discomfort, pain, and even breathing problems in severe cases.

Diagnosis is made through a physical examination and X-rays, and there are different treatment options available, such as observation, bracing, or surgery depending on the degree of the spinal curvature. If you or someone you love is concerned about scoliosis, see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options.