Scoliosis is a common condition that is often diagnosed during childhood and adolescence. You likely know someone who experienced scoliosis as a child or grew up with classmates who had the condition. But did you know there are three types of scoliosis?
Despite seemingly sound logic, childhood scoliosis is not caused by bad posture, carrying heavy books or wearing backpacks the wrong way. Most forms of scoliosis—over 80 percent—are idiopathic, meaning there is no known cause for the condition. Idiopathic scoliosis tends to run in families and is more common in girls than in boys.
Scoliosis can also be congenital or neuromuscular. A rare condition, congenital scoliosis is a result of spine problems that are present at birth. For example, a part of the spine may not develop properly, or segments of the spine may become fused together.
Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy that can affect the nerves and muscles responsible for spinal alignment.
Physicians grade the severity of scoliosis by measuring the spine’s curves in degrees. Typically, lower numbers require milder treatment or in many cases, no treatment at all.
Spinal fusion is the most common surgery for scoliosis. During the procedure, spinal vertebrae are realigned, and bone grafts are placed in between them. Metal rods are inserted to keep the bones in place. As the spine heals, the bones grow and fuse together, keeping the spine straight, as the child grows older.
Bracing and nonsurgical treatments are meant to stop spinal curves from worsening and cannot correct existing curves. Since scoliosis often presents no pain or symptoms, children can live with minor and moderate curves with little chance of complication. Adult scoliosis can usually be monitored and treated without surgery, as well. However, if disabling symptoms develop, surgical treatment may be necessary.
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Sources: kidshealth.org, medlineplus.gov, orthoinfo.aaos.org, srs.org