A healthy human spine is curved and flexible, which allows you to bend and twist. But when the spinal curve is abnormal, it may suggest there is a condition called scoliosis.
Scoliosis is when the spine develops abnormally and curves sideways into an S or C shape. It is most often diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 15, although it can strike at any age. About 3 to 5 children out of every 1,000 have scoliosis that is serious enough that it requires treatment.
In most cases of scoliosis, the cause is unknown (known as "idiopathic" scoliosis). In other cases, an underlying condition, injury, or infection is to blame. Researchers have not been able to determine a way to prevent scoliosis, but they are studying various exercise programs and other potential prevention methods.
Scoliosis is usually diagnosed after the curvature of the spine is seen during a physical exam or a scoliosis screening at school. When a medical team suspects a child has scoliosis, they will examine the child's back, neck, and shoulders; perform X-rays; and take measurements of the curve of the spine using the X-ray images.
If your child is diagnosed with scoliosis, you probably have some concerns. But rest assured that scoliosis isn't usually a life-threatening or even dangerous condition. Scoliosis can, however, lead to discomfort and problems with self-esteem in teens. Still, for the vast majority, kids grow up just fine.
Whether scoliosis is treated depends on the measurement of the curve of the spine. Treatment does not cure the condition, but it aims to prevent further curvature of the spine.
If the curve is less than 25 degrees, the recommended action is usually only monitoring the child through observation (seeing what happens to the curve without any further scoliosis treatment).
In curves that are 25 to 40 degrees, scoliosis treatment with a brace can come into play. The goal here is not to fix the curvature, but to keep it from worsening. If your child needs a brace, there are many different options. And in most cases, the brace can be removed so as not to interfere with physical activities and sports at school.
When a curve is 45 degrees or more, many experts say it is time to consider surgery. But the decision to perform surgery is not one that should be taken lightly, since the procedure is complicated and the outcome is not perfect.
Scoliosis surgery straightens out the spine, which is then held in place with a screw, rods, and hooks. Over time, bone fuses around these rods, furthering strengthening the new shape, but also stealing some flexibility in the process.
Some people have turned to treatments such as chiropractic manipulation, electric stimulation, nutritional supplements, and exercise for their scoliosis, but none of these methods have been proven effective in preventing the progression of the spinal curve.
Children with scoliosis and their caregivers should work with the medical team to follow their condition, determine if it progresses, and treat it accordingly.