Scoliosis is an abnormal curve in the spine.
The most common symptom of scoliosis is curvature of the spine.
Scoliosis risk factors include age (9- to 15-year-olds), female sex, and family history.
Diagnosis is done by the physical exam and by imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI.
The prognosis for an individual with scoliosis ranges from mainly good to fair, depending on how early the problem is diagnosed and treated.
There is no cure for scoliosis, but the symptoms can be reduced.
People with scoliosis develop additional curves to either side of the body, and the bones of the spine twist on each other, forming a “C” or an “S” shape in the spine.
A very small number of patients with scoliosis may require surgery. Complications of scoliosis include chronic pain, respiratory deficiencies, and decreased exercise capacity..
The reasons for the change in shape are not usually known, but some cases are linked to cerebral palsy,muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, or a birth defect.
Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some children develop spine deformities that continue to get more severe as they grow.S
Severescoliosis can be disabling. An especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.
Children who have mild scoliosis are monitored closely, usually with X-rays, to see if the curve is getting worse.
Signs and symptoms
- Uneven shoulders – One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
- Uneven waist – One hip higher than the other