When there is a curve in the spine more than 10 degrees from side to side, that is a sign of scoliosis. The spine of a patient with scoliosis may look more like a “C” or “S” than a straight line. Approximately 2% of Americans suffer from scoliosis.
The cause of AIS, a type of scoliosis defined by the scoliosis clinic that occurs in late childhood or adolescence, is unknown. Idiopathic scoliosis accounts for more than 80% of all cases. AIS curves are often stable; however, in some cases, the curve continues to progress over time.
Symptoms and signs
AIS is not usually painful. A tilt or unevenness in the shoulders, hips, or waist is a common symptom of AIS. AIS is commonly discovered during routine physical examinations and scoliosis screenings at school or home by family members or the child.
Diagnosis
The doctor of the scoliosis clinic will first take a thorough medical history and may inquire about recent growth. During the physical exam, your scoliosis clinic doctor may ask your child to stand and then bend forward from the waist, arms loosely hanging, to See if one aspect of the rib cage is better distinguished than the other.
A neurological examination will also be finished via way of means of your doctor of scoliosis clinic to test for:
- Muscle fatigue
- Numbness
- Abnormal reflexes
Treatment
There is a wide range of treatment options available for scoliosis, depending on its severity and where it is diagnosed. When a child has a very mild curve, there is usually no need for treatment, although it should be monitored regularly to ensure it does not get worse.
There may be a need to brace the spine or perform surgery if the curve is moderate to severe. Factors to consider include:
Maturity. The threat of curve development is low if a kid’s bones have stopped growing. Braces also are greater powerful in youngsters whose bones are nevertheless increasing. Hand X-rays may be used to evaluate bone maturity.
Curve severity. Larger curves are much more likely to become worse over time.
Sex: Girls are a long way, much more likely than boys to progress.
Braces
The most commonly used brace is made of plastic and contoured to fit the body. This brace is virtually invisible under clothing due to its fitting under the arms, around the rib cage, and on the lower back and hips.
Most people wear braces between thirteen and sixteen hours a day, depending on the season. Wearing it for many hours throughout the day will increase its effectiveness. Sports participation by children wearing braces is generally not restricted. Sports or other body sports can be performed without the mount if necessary.
Surgery
Scoliosis surgery may be recommended if severe scoliosis worsens over time, as it can straighten the curve and prevent worsening in the future.
Surgical alternatives include:
Rod that expands: Expandable rods along a child’s spine can be used to treat scoliosis that progresses rapidly at a young age. An extension of the rods is performed either surgically or via remote control at intervals of three to six months.
Tethering of the vertebral body: This procedure can be performed through small incisions. To correct the abnormal spinal curve, screws are threaded through the screws. In response to the tightening of the cord, the spine straightens. Growing children may have their spines straightened even more.
Bleeding, infection and nerve damage are all possible complications of spinal surgery.
