Scoliosis

Understanding Scoliosis

What Parents Need to Know About Scoliosis and Treatment Options

Scoliosis is an important orthopedic condition for parents to be aware of with their child as millions of people in America currently are living with it. Scoliosis is a deformity of the spine that results in having an abnormal curvature. Instead of a straight spine, the spine of someone with scoliosis’ would appear to bend in an S or C shape when being looked at straight on. The amount of this curve can vary, but it is defined as being more than ten degrees. Generally, scoliosis occurs mildly and does not pose severe health risks. In adults, and more severe cases with children, oftentimes scoliosis can cause pain in the lower back which can be intense. In the most serious cases, it can lead to heart complications when the spine’s curve causes pressure to be put onto it. However, scoliosis is more likely to only cause issues with posture or differences in how body parts such as how their shoulder sits. Other common traits include the head not being centered on their body, the position the arms rest naturally being abnormal, and differences in the back’s appearance when moving. These differences can be quite pronounced and lead to insecurity within children left without treatment, and it can get worse over time if left alone in more moderate to severe cases. 

Diagnosing Scoliosis

If you suspect that your child has scoliosis then it is a good idea to take them to a Pediatric Orthopedist to get an evaluation. Pediatric Orthopedists are doctors who specialize in treating children and their bones, and come equipped with staff and facilities that specialize in this as well. They can ensure your child gets an accurate diagnosis. To do this, X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans are a common way to get a good look at the spine and determine if it is scoliosis, and if so, what is the specific nature of it. Children’s bodies are complex and unique compared to adults so any medical professionals dealing with them must be well-versed in these intricacies in order to give a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for scoliosis. Early diagnosis is also important, as the condition can get worse or cause further health conditions the longer it goes without receiving medical care.

Treatment for Scoliosis

Severity plays a large role in determining what kind of treatment is best suited for each case. In minor cases, a doctor is likely to place the child under observation and give exams when needed to monitor the growth of the curve. If growth continues at a faster rate additional treatments may be needed to correct existing growth and prevent it further. Back braces can be used to help the spine to grow naturally, and children are often given them for a time when growing to prevent any continued growth of their curve. In more serious cases that have resisted treatment, surgery can be done to correct the curve of the spine and reset it to a more normal degree.

Outlook

Millions of Americans live everyday with scoliosis, and have received successful treatment that has completely resolved their issues. Scoliosis is not a scary condition in most cases, and with proper medical care it can almost be fully healed and corrected with no long-term effects for the child. Early care and treatment are especially important in this, so staying aware and going to the best professionals to receive care is the first step in treating a child’s scoliosis.

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