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.
A number of signs may be seen in an individual with the problem. They include, for instance, a head that is leaning to one side, different levels of shoulders and hips and ribs being at higher level on one side than the other. The doctor will start by taking the relevant clinical history and examining the back to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. Imaging studies such as CT scans and X-rays are also quite helpful.
The objective of treatment is to prevent the worsening of the condition and to provide some stability. For the mild cases, which comprise the majority, affected persons lead normal lives even without intervention. The other cases may be managed using conservative (non-surgical) or surgical methods. The choice will be determined, to a large extent, by the severity.
If the condition is the result of an underlying problem (non-structural type), treating the underlying problem will improve the abnormal spine curvature and relieve the associated symptoms. Examples of such conditions include differences in the length of lower limbs and muscle spasms. If it is due to a disease that directly affects the spine (the structural type), treatment will most likely be required.
The conservative approach consists of two main options. The first is simply watchful waiting in which the doctor schedules for regular physical examinations sessions to determine whether there is a progression in the severity of the curvature. For children that are still growing, check-ups are scheduled to take place every four to six months. In adults, they are done once annually. The second option is to use a brace to stop the progress.
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.
Surgery involves the placement of metallic rods between the affected vertebral bodies to increase stability. Another alternative is to fuse these vertebra so as to convert them into a single bone mass. The latter option is not preferred in young patients as it interferes with the growth of bone. The option here is using the metal rods and having a full-time brace as well.
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.
A number of signs may be seen in an individual with the problem. They include, for instance, a head that is leaning to one side, different levels of shoulders and hips and ribs being at higher level on one side than the other. The doctor will start by taking the relevant clinical history and examining the back to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. Imaging studies such as CT scans and X-rays are also quite helpful.
The objective of treatment is to prevent the worsening of the condition and to provide some stability. For the mild cases, which comprise the majority, affected persons lead normal lives even without intervention. The other cases may be managed using conservative (non-surgical) or surgical methods. The choice will be determined, to a large extent, by the severity.
If the condition is the result of an underlying problem (non-structural type), treating the underlying problem will improve the abnormal spine curvature and relieve the associated symptoms. Examples of such conditions include differences in the length of lower limbs and muscle spasms. If it is due to a disease that directly affects the spine (the structural type), treatment will most likely be required.
The conservative approach consists of two main options. The first is simply watchful waiting in which the doctor schedules for regular physical examinations sessions to determine whether there is a progression in the severity of the curvature. For children that are still growing, check-ups are scheduled to take place every four to six months. In adults, they are done once annually. The second option is to use a brace to stop the progress.
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.
Surgery involves the placement of metallic rods between the affected vertebral bodies to increase stability. Another alternative is to fuse these vertebra so as to convert them into a single bone mass. The latter option is not preferred in young patients as it interferes with the growth of bone. The option here is using the metal rods and having a full-time brace as well.
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.
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