What is Scoliosis?
Your spine is the central support structure for your body, so it’s no surprise that many of us remember being told to sit up straight and don’t hunch over. But what happens when your main support system is making you unable to sit up straight or feel pain?
Scoliosis causes your spine to curve to the left, the right, or both. Although children and adolescents are more likely than adults to be diagnosed with Scoliosis, it can affect people of all ages.
What are the main causes and types of Scoliosis?
- Idiopathic – No specific cause, this is the most common form and affects 80% of all pediatric scoliosis cases.
- Degenerative – Caused from an asymmetrical disc degeneration over time.
- Congenital – Occurs when the spine doesn’t develop properly in utero.
- Neuromuscular – Caused by disorder in the brain, spinal cord, and muscular system.
- Thoracogenic – Due to radiation treatment of childhood tumors or surgery to address a congenital heart defect, patients can develop an asymmetric spine.
- Syndromic – Develops as part of an underlying syndrome or disorder.
Symptoms of Scoliosis
- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- Uneven waist
- One hip higher than the other
More severe cases may cause
- Back pain
- Inability to stand upright
- Height loss in adults
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction
To figure out the best treatment option, you should consult with your provider or a specialist. When determining a treatment option, medical providers consider the following;
- Spinal maturity
- Degree and extent of curvature
- Location of curve
- Possibility of progression
It is always best to consult your provider to ensure you are getting the proper care and treatment for your Scoliosis. With providers specializing in spine and pediatrics, you are sure to find the perfect fit at Iowa Ortho. If you have any questions please call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online.