Scoliosis is a deformity of the spine, where it is bent laterally (from side to side) into an S or C shape, occasionally,
there's also a horizontal twist or rotation of the spine.
Causes
The cause of the most common form of scoliosis that develops in childhood is unknown, hence its name idiopathic scoliosis.
Sometimes the child is born with an abnormality of a vertebral bone or spina bifida, which can lead to scoliosis.
In a number of cases, scoliosis forms secondary to a different condition, particularly those that cause an imbalance in
the muscles, such as Muscular Dystrophy or cerebral palsy
The most common type of idiopathic scoliosis is late-onset scoliosis. It usually affects healthy girls between the ages
of ten and 14, during the growth spurt of puberty. Overall, about two per cent of the population have scoliosis. However,
it does run in families and in an affected family about 20 per cent may have the condition.
Symptoms
Scoliosis often starts at about the age of eight but may go unnoticed, especially as it rarely causes problems in the early
years. Parents may see an uneven waist or shoulders, particularly prominent shoulder blades, elevated hips or leaning to one
side. As scoliosis progresses it may cause back, limb or abdominal pain and may start to restrict breathing as lung cavity
is distorted.
Treatment
Diagnosis should be made by a doctor after a thorough medical examination. Treatment consists of observation, bracing and
surgery. If the curvature isn't severe or the child has nearly finished growing, they may simply be checked on a regular basis.
Most will get better without treatment. However, a brace is sometimes necessary to prevent scoliosis getting worse, and must
be fitted by a specialist. In severe cases, especially if the child is still growing, surgery may be necessary to straighten
the spine.
Scoliosis can get worse in adult life, causing problems with back pain and increasingly obstructing normal breathing. Talk
to your doctor if you're worried.
For more information contact: Scoliosis Association (UK) Helpline: 020 8964 1166 or go to their Website: www.sauk.org.uk
