Understanding scoliosis: causes, symptoms and treatments

Scoliosis is a condition characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine. This curvature can cause pain, breathing problems and other complications. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for scoliosis.

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can occur at any age, but is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. It can be mild or severe and can cause pain, breathing problems and postural problems. The causes of scoliosis can be hereditary or unknown, and treatment depends on the severity of the curve and the patient’s age.

SCOLIOSIS IN CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS:

Idiopathic scoliosis: Idiopathic scoliosis is a condition in which a child’s spine curves sideways. This can be due to stunted growth of the spinal bones or uneven growth.

Idiopathic scoliosis is rare, but it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. If you suspect your child has idiopathic scoliosis, make an appointment to see a doctor right away. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications and help your child lead a normal life.

WHAT CAUSES IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS?

The exact cause of idiopathic scoliosis is not known, but it appears to be genetic. It is a hereditary condition that mainly affects girls before puberty.

Secondary scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that results from problems with the bones or muscles of the back, rather than from a spinal deformity.

Secondary scoliosis: The most common form of secondary scoliosis is Scheuermann’s disease, which occurs in teenagers and young adults between the ages of 10 and 20. Other causes of secondary scoliosis include:

• Muscle imbalance: In some cases, exercise can help correct muscle imbalances. An exercise programme may include strengthening your core muscles (those around your abdomen) and stretching exercises to stretch tight muscles in your back and hips. Your doctor will help you develop an exercise programme based on your needs and goals.
• Posture: Posture affects the stress on bones in different parts of the body, especially in areas where bones are close together. Poor posture can lead to increased stress on certain bones in the spine.

CAUSES OF SCOLIOSIS:

The causes of scoliosis can be hereditary, meaning that it can be passed down from generation to generation within a family. In most cases, however, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing scoliosis, such as neuromuscular disorders, spinal injuries, infections and tumours. Women are also more likely to develop scoliosis than men.

Scoliosis usually develops in childhood or adolescence, but can also occur in adults. It is more common in girls than boys, but can affect both sexes equally.

WHAT IMAGING TESTS ARE NEEDED FOR SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is diagnosed by your doctor based on your symptoms, X-rays and possibly an MRI. Your doctor will order imaging tests if you have back pain or other symptoms that may be caused by scoliosis.

These imaging tests are used to diagnose scoliosis:

• X-rays: This test uses low doses of radiation to produce pictures of your bones and tissues in an image called an x-ray. Doctors often use X-rays to determine whether a person has scoliosis before ordering more advanced tests, such as CT scans or MRIs. An X-ray can be taken while you are lying down (AP view) or standing upright (upright view).
• CT scan: A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create cross-sections of your body, called slices, which are then combined to create 3D images.