Scoliosis

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine. It can occur at any point along the spine and can range in severity.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SCOLIOSIS?

The symptoms of Scoliosis can include:

• Shoulders at different heights
• Hips at different heights
• Rib cage at different heights
• Head not being centered above the pelvis
• Dimples, hairy patches or colour changes in the skin overlying the spine

Scoliosis is not usually painful for children or teenagers but can be painful for them as adults if it is left untreated.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF SCOLIOSIS?

Scoliosis is rarely present at birth and most often occurs in teenagers around the time of their growth spurt. Idiopathic Scoliosis means Scoliosis for which there is no known cause. This is the case for about 80% of people with Scoliosis.

From that 80%, around 80% of those cases are adolescent onset. Scoliosis affects women more often than men. There is also believed to be a genetic connection and people who have spinal deformities in their family history are at a greater risk of developing Scoliosis.

Scoliosis can sometimes occur as a symptom of other conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida and Muscular Dystrophy. It can also occur alongside other conditions.

HOW IS SCOLIOSIS TREATED?

Treatment for scoliosis is essential to prevent damage to the spine, chest, pelvis, heart and lungs. Early discovery is important to achieve the best possible outcome.

Treatment for Scoliosis will depend upon the age of the person, how severe the curve is, the location of the curve and whether the curve is likely to get worse.

There are three main treatments used for Scoliosis:  

1. Observation – as the condition may correct itself as the child grows
2. Bracing – using a back brace to prevent further curvature
3. Surgery – using the insertion of a permanent metal rod.

Scoliosis surgery is often performed for cosmetic reasons rather than pain reasons as surgery may not considerably reduce the pain. Most cases which require more than observation can be treated with bracing.

For further information click here

To Download This Page As An MP3 File click here

Back to top

*****

Please note that every care is taken to ensure that the information included on this webpage is accurate. However, should you discover any information which you believe to be inaccurate please Contact Us as soon as possible.

Although the information we have provided here is meant to be helpful to you, Douglas Silas Solicitors cannot be held responsible for any damage or loss caused by any inaccuracy or reliance placed upon it. If you have any concerns about your child, you should seek professional educational or healthcare advice as soon as possible.