Introduction
Scoliosis is a lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine most commonly seen in girls during early adolescence.
About
The most common type of Scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis, which makes up about 85% of all cases. It affects about 5 in 1000 people. Up to 80% of cases of idiopathic Scoliosis occur in young girls between the ages of 10 and 16 years. Other types of Scoliosis may occur at birth or as a result of another underlying disease, such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy, but these cases are less common.
The cause of Scoliosis is unknown and there is no known way to prevent it. The severity of the condition depends on how early the symptoms begin. If a curve occurs just before or during puberty, the growth spurt can sometimes make it worse. If the curve first appears toward the end of puberty, it will probably be very mild. Once the child stops growing, the curvature will not progress any further.
Mild Scoliosis does not cause any problems and may even go unnoticed. A child with mild Scoliosis can participate in all activities with the possible exception of heavy contact sports. In severe cases, Scoliosis may affect the shape of the chest and interfere with lung function.
Signs and symptoms
- The head appears off-centre.
- One hip or shoulder may be higher than the other.
- The patient walks unevenly, with a rolling gait.
- Clothes do not seem to hang evenly.
- Lower back pain and fatigue may occur after prolonged sitting or standing.
Health care
As with all conditions your Doctor should be consulted to diagnose and treat Scoliosis. The outcome will depend on the severity of the curvature and at what stage it is detected. Your Doctor may refer you to an Orthopaedic specialist.
- Scoliosis is usually discovered during routine screening at school. The child is asked to remove his/her clothing above the waist and stand with the back facing the examiner. They slowly bend forward to touch the toes, while keeping the knees straight. The spine is then examined for straightness.
- If a curve is seen, X-rays will be taken to determine the severity.
- In 90% of cases, Scoliosis remains mild and requires no treatment.
- If the curve is greater than 20 degrees, treatment may be needed. This may involve a brace combined with an exercise programme. The brace will not cure the Scoliosis, but can prevent it from getting worse.
- In severe cases, where the curve is greater than 40 degrees, surgical correction may be recommended. Steel rods are inserted into the spine to straighten it. The surgery is risky but the results are usually very good.
Diet tips
- Scoliosis is NOT caused by nutritional deficiency. However a healthy diet is recommended to promote normal growth and development.
- It is advisable for adolescents to restrict the intake of 'fast foods' which are high in calories and low in nutritional value.
- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of fresh water each day.
Notes
Forward curvature of the spine (hunchback) is called kyphosis. It may occur in patients with osteoporosis. A form of kyphosis affecting adolescent boys is known as Scheuermann's disease.
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