Scoliosis is an abnormal side to side curvature of the spine. Instead of a straight line, it may form more of an “S” shape or “C” shape. Scoliosis usually occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty.
Angela Doctor is a registered nurse and the Scoliosis Screening Coordinator for Children’s of Alabama. In 1984, the state of Alabama mandated that all public school students between the ages of 11 and 14 be screened for scoliosis. “The importance of scoliosis screening is early detection,” Doctor says. “Children are doing a lot of growing during the adolescent period, so our goal is to halt the progression of scoliosis.”
Types of Scoliosis
Doctor says there are three types of scoliosis. The most common is adolescent idiopathic, in which case the cause is unknown. But scoliosis can congenital, caused by a defect at birth, or due to a neuromuscular disease like cerebral palsy.
Treatment
For most children, scoliosis is not a problem. Some may require ongoing monitoring. But a curve that gets worse can be bad for a child’s health. If an orthopedic specialist determines treatment is necessary, the options include a back brace to halt the deformity, or spinal surgery.
Possible Signs
Parents may wonder if their child has scoliosis. Doctor says signs to look for include:
-Uneven shoulders
-Uneven scapulas
-Uneven waist and hips
-One side of the back higher than the other when bending forward
If a parent suspects their child may have scoliosis, they should see their pediatrician. He or she may refer the child to an orthopedic specialist to confirm a diagnosis and decide whether treatment is necessary.
It’s crucial to identify scoliosis early while the spine is still growing. When treatment is over, people with scoliosis are able to live full and active lives.
