5 Facts About Scoliosis Every Parent Should know

Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine. It can vary from a slight abnormality to a disfiguring deformity that can affect how a person walks and breathes. Here are 5 facts about scoliosis every parent should know:

• Scoliosis is common: It is the most common spinal deformity in children.The most common type, “adolescent idiopathic scoliosis,” starts just before puberty. It is often detected between the ages of 10 and 15 around the time of a child’s growth spurt usually a year before puberty.
• When to see a specialist: If there’s any asymmetry detected in your child’s shoulders, shoulder blades, spine, or pelvis, we recommend seeing a paediatric spine specialist to have an x-ray performed. If scoliosis is present, the doctor can measure the degree of curvature.
• Early diagnosis is key: Treatment for children with a spinal curve of about 25 degrees are treated without surgery, using a brace, physical therapy, and/or vitamin D supplements. Scoliosis is not just a cosmetic problem. Scoliosis that remains untreated can get worse. Once the curve hits the 70º stage, lung function may be impaired. Curves of 90 degrees or more can worsen both lung and heart function.
• Wear the brace as recommended for full benefit: When a brace is needed, we custom fit your child with an external brace (a vest-like garment) to keep the scoliosis from getting worse and to maintain an upright spine. We choose the most effective brace that your child is most likely to wear as prescribed. Your child should wear the brace for 16 to 18 hours every day until he or she stops growing. This will ensure the spine straightens adequately and will stay straight into adulthood.
• When surgery is needed: If your child has a curve of 50º or more, surgery is usually necessary. There are a variety of different approaches depending on the age of your child. Physical therapy can also help to correct the curve. There are specific exercises and corrective breathing techniques a physical therapist can teach your child to develop the inner muscles of the rib cage and change the shape of the upper trunk.

Over to you
Children with scoliosis who receive treatment can live normal, active lives. Even children who have had scoliosis surgery can participate in many sports and activities with their peers.Scoliosis is treatable. There have never been better treatment options for children with scoliosis. The sooner you start, the less likely your child will need surgery and the healthier he or she will be.