The main feature of scoliosis is an abnormal spine curvature in the horizontal plane. The problem is usually first noticed in childhood and its prevalence is higher in girls than boys. For the majority of those affected, no symptoms are noted. In severe cases, the main symptoms are chest pain and breathing abnormalities. There are various options of scoliosis treatment you may consider if suffering from the problem.
There are several signs that may suggest the presence of scoliosis. These include a head that is not well centered on the body, ribs being higher on one side than the other and a hip or shoulder that is at a higher level than the other. A clinical history and a physical examination by the doctor will provide even more information. The doctor may also request for imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
The main reason as to why intervention would be needed is to arrest the progress of the condition and to provide some stability to the spine. If the severity falls into the mild category, one may lead a normal life even without treatment. The options that are used in managing the condition fall under two major categories: non-surgical and surgical. The choice is largely dependent on the degree of severity.
In some cases, scoliosis is due to another condition that is totally unrelated to the spine such as muscle spasms or differences in the length of lower limbs. This type is known as the non-structural type and is corrected by managing the underlying condition. Cases that directly relate to the spine lead to the structural type and will almost always require some form of intervention.
There are two main options under conservative management. The first is watchful waiting by the doctor. It entails having scheduled appointments during which the patient is examined to establish whether the condition is worsening. In growing children, more sessions are needed and these would typically be done after every four to six months. In adults, one session every year is considered adequate. The second option is the use of braces.
There are several complications that may arise from the use of braces. Varying degrees of discomfort have been reported by the wearers. Such discomfort may discourage the wearing of the device. There may also be skin irritation around the area covered by the brace. The third complication is the worsening of the curvature in spite of putting on the device consistently. Regular examination of the child helps track these complications.
During surgery, metallic rods are attached to the spine to give it more stability. An alternative is to fuse adjacent vertebral bodies to form a single solid bone mass so as to reduce the curve and to stop it from worsening. Fusion is not desirable in children because their bones are still growing. However, rods can be placed without affecting growth. A full-time brace can be worn afterwards.
The outcomes of treating scoliosis can be significantly improved if the problem is identified early. The factors that determine whether or not intervention is required include the size of the curve, patient age, and skeletal age. Most cases are mild and are simply observed over time. Braces may be used in selected cases. Surgery is chosen in very severe cases or if the condition is rapidly worsening. The role of such an operation will be to stabilize the spine and to decrease the curve.
There are several signs that may suggest the presence of scoliosis. These include a head that is not well centered on the body, ribs being higher on one side than the other and a hip or shoulder that is at a higher level than the other. A clinical history and a physical examination by the doctor will provide even more information. The doctor may also request for imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans.
The main reason as to why intervention would be needed is to arrest the progress of the condition and to provide some stability to the spine. If the severity falls into the mild category, one may lead a normal life even without treatment. The options that are used in managing the condition fall under two major categories: non-surgical and surgical. The choice is largely dependent on the degree of severity.
In some cases, scoliosis is due to another condition that is totally unrelated to the spine such as muscle spasms or differences in the length of lower limbs. This type is known as the non-structural type and is corrected by managing the underlying condition. Cases that directly relate to the spine lead to the structural type and will almost always require some form of intervention.
There are two main options under conservative management. The first is watchful waiting by the doctor. It entails having scheduled appointments during which the patient is examined to establish whether the condition is worsening. In growing children, more sessions are needed and these would typically be done after every four to six months. In adults, one session every year is considered adequate. The second option is the use of braces.
There are several complications that may arise from the use of braces. Varying degrees of discomfort have been reported by the wearers. Such discomfort may discourage the wearing of the device. There may also be skin irritation around the area covered by the brace. The third complication is the worsening of the curvature in spite of putting on the device consistently. Regular examination of the child helps track these complications.
During surgery, metallic rods are attached to the spine to give it more stability. An alternative is to fuse adjacent vertebral bodies to form a single solid bone mass so as to reduce the curve and to stop it from worsening. Fusion is not desirable in children because their bones are still growing. However, rods can be placed without affecting growth. A full-time brace can be worn afterwards.
The outcomes of treating scoliosis can be significantly improved if the problem is identified early. The factors that determine whether or not intervention is required include the size of the curve, patient age, and skeletal age. Most cases are mild and are simply observed over time. Braces may be used in selected cases. Surgery is chosen in very severe cases or if the condition is rapidly worsening. The role of such an operation will be to stabilize the spine and to decrease the curve.
About the Author:
When you are looking for the facts about a scoliosis treatment, pay a visit to our web pages online here today. Additional details are available at http://scoliosisprevention.org now.
