Getting Ahead of the Curve on Scoliosis

Scoliosis, also known as spinal curvature, occurs when the spine curves abnormally to the side, similar to the shape of an S. Although 85 percent of scoliosis cases have no known cause, factors such as injury, infection or birth defects are all known to contribute to it. Your likelihood of getting scoliosis rises nearly 20 percent if a family member had it.

Who can get it?

Approximately 6 million people in the United States are affected by scoliosis. Adolescents are more likely to have scoliosis, and girls are at increased risk of having a drastic curve that requires treatment. Even though it’s most common around ages 10 to 15, scoliosis has been known to occur in adults, too. Scoliosis in adults can result from degenerative spine changes over time or can be from a previous spinal curve that was never diagnosed in childhood.

What are the treatments?

An individual’s age, his or her height, type of scoliosis and pattern of curve all determine what treatment is most appropriate. Mild scoliosis is usually monitored through periodic observation, and early detection can help ensure a spinal curve does not worsen. Below are common treatments for children and adults:

• Children — Although most adolescents don’t require treatment to correct a curved spine, a brace or surgery is sometimes needed in severe cases to keep the curve from getting worse. An examination by a family physician or pediatrician is your best bet. Scoliosis can often go undetected because early development of the disease isn’t very painful. Warning signs to watch for include: a side lean, uneven shoulders, protruding shoulder blades or an uneven waist.
• Adults — For some adults with scoliosis that is beyond prevention and early detection, minor cases can be treated with physical therapy and special exercises, including yoga. Because yoga emphasizes good posture, beneficial poses and stretches, doctors often recommend that patients take a class to help improve core strength. Remember that yoga classes often vary depending upon the style of the instructor, so don’t be afraid to try a few different instructors until you find one that’s a good fit for you.
  The most important thing to remember is that scoliosis is a treatable disease. Keeping a positive and open relationship with your health care provider is your best chance for success. Talk with your Riverview Health primary care provider for more information about scoliosis and its treatments.

Ready to meet with one of our orthopedic and sports medicine doctors? Call us at 317.565.0505 to request an appointment.

Sources: AAOS.org, NIAMS.NIH.gov, NLM.NIH.gov, Scoliosis.org