Scoliosis
It is a spinal deformity characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine. A healthy spine appears as a straight line when viewed from the back. Scoliosis In this condition, the spine curves to the right or left and sometimes rotates around its own axis. This can lead to asymmetry in the back and lumbar region.
What causes scoliosis?
The cause of scoliosis cannot always be clearly determined. In idiopathic scoliosis, the most common type, a definitive cause cannot be identified, and it usually appears in growing children. Besides this, neuromuscular conditions, connective tissue diseases, and some genetic factors can lead to scoliosis. Trauma, spinal tumors, or infections can also be a cause in rare cases. Uneven spinal development, especially during periods of rapid growth, can contribute to the worsening of the curvature.
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Scoliosis can manifest itself through certain physical changes that are particularly noticeable during the growth period:
- Shoulder Level Disparity: One common symptom is one shoulder being higher than the other.
- Prominence in the Shoulder Blade: A bulge may be noticeable on one side of the back when bending forward.
- Waist and Hip Asymmetry: An imbalance in hip level or a noticeable difference in waist curve may occur.
- Postural Curvature: The sideways curvature of the spine is visible when the person is standing.
- Clothes Not Hanging Properly: It might be noticeable that one side of the dress is higher than the other, or that the trouser legs are not even.
- Back and Lower Back Pain: Pain may occur, especially in older individuals or in advanced cases.
What are the treatment methods for scoliosis?
Scoliosis treatment methods are planned according to the degree of curvature, the patient's age, and growth potential. The goal is to stop the progression of the spinal curvature and maintain a balanced spinal structure. The treatment process must be determined after an expert evaluation.
- Regular doctor check-ups are necessary for mild curvatures.
- Personalized spinal exercise programs
- Posture training and posture correction exercises.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation applications
- In moderate cases, corset treatment
- Surgical evaluation for advanced and progressive curvatures.
The treatment plan is individualized and should be followed up with regular check-ups. Early intervention is especially important in children during their growth period. With appropriate methods, the progression of the curvature can be controlled in many patients. Furthermore, their quality of life can be preserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mild curvatures can sometimes remain stable without progressing. However, scoliosis usually does not completely correct itself and requires monitoring.
It often does not cause pain in childhood. Back and lower back pain may occur in later years or in advanced cases.
The duration of brace use varies depending on the degree of curvature and the patient's growth status. It is generally recommended until growth is complete.
No, surgical evaluation is only performed for advanced and progressive curvatures. Most patients are followed up with non-surgical methods.