June is Scoliosis Awareness Month and below is an article written by one of our regional nurse managers, Patricia Austin RN, BSN.
For more information/resources or to learn more about awareness month, visit the National Scoliosis Foundation website: https://www.scoliosis.org/
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that occurs just before puberty during a growth spurt usually. It is very common. More than 3 million US cases per year. In around 8 in every 10 cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. This is called idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis cannot be prevented and is not thought to be caused by bad posture, exercise or diet. Congenital scoliosis occurs when the bones in the spine do not form properly in the womb. Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by an underlying nerve or muscle condition such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy. Degenerative scoliosis affects older adults and is caused by wear and tear of the spine with age.
Most cases of scoliosis are mild with few symptoms. Symptoms of scoliosis include a visibly curved spine, leaning to one side, uneven shoulders, one shoulder or hip sticking out, the ribs sticking out on one side, clothes not fitting well and complaints of back pain. Some children develop spine deformities that get more severe as they grow. Severe cases are very painful and disabling. Treatment for scoliosis depends on your age, how severe the curve is, and whether it’s likely to get worse over time. Often no treatment is necessary. A brace is commonly utilized during growth to decrease the curvature of the spine but often causes discomfort and body image issues with teens particularly. Only a small number of people need surgery. Scoliosis is a condition that cannot be cured.
Babies and toddlers may not need treatment as the curve might improve over time. A plaster cast or plastic brace may be fitted to their back to stop the curve getting worse as they grow. Older children may wear a back brace to stop the curve getting worse until they stop growing. Sometimes surgery may be needed to control the growth of the spine until an operation to straighten if can be done when they stop growing. Adults may need treatment to relieve pain, such as painkillers, spinal injections or surgery. Medical providers perform regular scoliosis assessments during well child visits in order to screen for early signs of scoliosis in order to begin preventative treatment.
General back exercises help improve scoliosis, but general exercise is good for overall health and should not be avoided unless advised by your doctor. Most people with scoliosis are able to live normal lives and can do most activities, including exercise and sports. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about yourself or someone you love exhibiting signs of scoliosis.
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