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Anatomically, our spine has natural curves that help maintain weight distribution, symmetry, and flexibility. However, genes, hormones, neurological abnormalities, and birth defects among other causes can trigger either a S-shaped, a C-shaped, or a side-to-side curvature of the spine.
The precise cause remains unknown in most cases, posing challenges for prevention. While mild cases may go unnoticed, severe scoliosis can cause pain, discomfort, and affect lung and heart function. Early detection through regular check-ups is crucial for effective management. Let’s explore scoliosis more deeply, examining its effects and available treatment options.
Scoliosis is a spinal condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, often forming an ‘S’ or ‘C’ shape. It becomes apparent through visible signs like uneven shoulders, a lopsided waistline, or a ‘rib hump’ when bending. This condition can affect people of all ages, but it frequently manifests during adolescence, with a risk of the curvature worsening as individuals continue to grow.
A curvature of 10° and above is termed mild scoliosis. Those with 25 to 30° of curvature have moderate scoliosis and finally, those with 45-50° curvature are witnessing severe scoliosis that requires surgery to restore spinal curvature and physical therapy to rehabilitate.
Types of Scoliosis by Location:
Thoracic Scoliosis
Lumbar Scoliosis
Thoraco-Lumbar Scoliosis
Combined Scoliosis
Types of Scoliosis by Cause and other factors:
Idiopathic Scoliosis
Degenerative Scoliosis
Congenital Scoliosis
Neuromuscular Scoliosis
Syndromic Scoliosis
Functional Scoliosis
Early Onset Scoliosis, etc.
Certain tell-tale signs can help you detect whether you or someone you know has scoliosis. These signs include a visibly curved spine, uneven shoulders, body leaning to one side, shoulder, hip or ribs sticking out of one side, among others.
Other common causes of scoliosis include muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, birth defects, spinal infections or injuries, genetics, and family history of scoliosis, among others. When it comes to gender-wise distribution, females are more likely to get scoliosis than males.
Generally, children or teens with scoliosis don’t experience pain. Most scoliosis cases won’t require any doctor intervention. In certain cases, children may be asked to get regular check-ups and X-rays done every 4-6 months to check whether the condition isn’t worsening and may have to wear braces depending upon the severity.
Those with degenerative adult scoliosis may experience symptoms such as stiffness or aches in the mid to low back. They can feel weakness or numbness in the leg as scoliosis can impact the sciatic nerve allowing the pain to radiate down the leg, especially in case of severe scoliosis.
You might feel pain when standing up as there’s more pressure on the nerves especially if you have developed spinal stenosis as well. The pain eases when lying down as the nerves decompress. Similarly, the symptoms are noticeable, especially during the morning or nighttime.
Those with degenerative scoliosis may develop side-to-side curvature as the spinal structures are no longer able to provide adequate support. It can lead to spinal imbalance which translates into difficulty when performing even the basic movements such as walking or standing.
Many factors need to be considered when addressing a query about scoliosis. For instance, most scoliosis cases may be asymptomatic, with mild curvature that doesn’t require surgery. However, scoliosis unquestionably affects one’s day-to-day life.
The disorder is synonymous with pain and physical discomfort in severe cases. Pain typically concentrates in the neck, shoulder, or back region, making even the simplest activities such as sitting or standing challenging. The curvature of the spine can take a dig at one’s self-confidence and self-esteem. People with scoliosis may experience low self-esteem and body image concerns. In certain cases, limited mobility can hinder participation in physical activities and sports, which can be disheartening for those who enjoy outdoor sports.
Wearing a brace to support the spine and prevent progression presents another challenge, as you might be required to wear it for almost 16-23 hours, which can be taxing and disrupt your life.
Your doctor will ask you to explain the symptoms, and possible pain points, and conduct a physical exam. They will assess the symmetry of your arms and shoulders, among other factors, to find if there’s any curvature of the spine. Uneven shoulders are often a tell-tale sign. Certain imaging tests and bone scans can help confirm the curvature following which the doctor can confirm the diagnosis. Depending upon the medical history and other inputs, your doctor should be able to devise a tailor-made treatment plan for you.
Certain medications can help alleviate acute pain if you have symptoms. However, we recommend consulting a doctor before buying any medications to avoid potential side effects.
Physical Therapy:Physical therapy is acutely important when it comes to the non-surgical treatment of scoliosis. It works by strengthening the muscles to support your back better. It can help improve posture and flexibility while preventing spine injuries, thanks to specific movements and activities prescribed by a healthcare professional. This minimizes the impact your spine undergoes during household chores.
Doctors may recommend a custom brace to support the spine and prevent it from worsening for children with curvature greater than 20° and adolescents with more than 25-30° curvature. As mentioned, the curve in scoliosis may increase during the growth stage of a child. The curvature will stop progressing when a patient has reached the full extent of the growth phase.
Braces can help avoid surgeries; however, there is a downside as well. Depending on the curvature, these braces are required to be worn for approximately 16-23 hours a day. Often, wearing braces for an extended period is challenging. For instance, it may cause skin irritation as it rubs against the skin, leading to redness and sore spots. Wearing a brace may limit your clothing options and restrict certain physical activities, such as twisting or bending.
Doctors will monitor the progress of your growth every 4 to 6 months. Braces may not correct the curvature on their own, but they can help reduce the curvature once the patient has reached their full growth.
Not wearing a brace can have its consequences potentially leading to a surgery required to rectify the curvature. Thus, precaution is always better than cure.
More than 80% of scoliosis cases are due to unidentifiable causes. As the condition may worsen with time, braces can help support the spine. However, the disorder does bring a lot of challenges in day-to-day activities that will require a lot of confidence, patience, and will to cope with it.
Are you looking for non-invasive treatments for Scoliosis? We at QI Spine can help. We are leading spine specialists in India for over 30+ spine-related problems and have helped 12,000+ patients avert surgeries.
Reach out to us at 08655885566 for your first free consultation.
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