Scoliosis – Common Symptoms and Treatment Modalities

Scoliosis is a medical disorder characterized by an abnormal, sideways curvature of the spine or backbone. The condition normally occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty. If the curve in the spine is nonstructural, it is temporary and can be corrected. The other case is when the spine has a fixed curve due to a birth defect or disease.

Though the exact cause is unknown in most people with the condition, it can occur due to the following factors:

• Neuromuscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy
• Birth defects affecting the development of the bones of the spine
• Injuries to or infections of the spine
• Hereditary factors

Severe scoliosis can be disabling and reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly.

Signs and Symptoms

The common signs and symptoms associated with this condition are –

• Uneven waist
• Uneven shoulders
• Tendency to lean on one side
• One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
• One hip higher than the other
• Menstrual-cycle disturbances
• Leg and hip pain
• Knee pain
• Headaches
• Difficulty in breathing
• Chronic fatigue and future spinal kyphosis (widow’s hump)
• Back pain
• A prominent ribcage

Types of Scoliosis

Scoliosis can affect people of all ages. The most common type, idiopathic scoliosis is seen in children age 10 to 12 and among those in their early teens. It is about two times more prevalent in girls than boys.

• Idiopathic – condition which is generally inherited
• Degenerative – due to traumatic injury or illness, previous surgery, bone collapse or osteoporosis
• Congenital – occurs during the period of fetal growth in the womb, when the bony portions of the spine fails to form properly or separated segments fuse together during fetal development
• Neuromuscular – the result of a neurological or muscular disease, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

Non-invasive Treatment Methods

When the condition is mild, it usually requires no treatment. If the condition needs attention, the type of treatment recommended would depend on factors such as the type of scoliosis, the patient’s age, the extent he or she is likely to grow, and the degree and pattern of the curve.

Degenerative adult scoliosis generally starts as low back pain. Professional healthcare centers offer effective non-invasive treatment modalities for the management of the condition:

• Physical therapy – This comprises therapeutic programs that strengthen muscles, alleviate pain and improve flexibility in the region around the back, helping patients improve posture and range of motion.

*Chiropractic care – This hands-on treatment method helps restore joint mobility and is effective for treating neuro musculoskeletal complaints such as joint pain, headaches, knee pain and back pain.

*Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) – TENS uses low voltage electric simulation that interacts with the sensory nervous system and eliminates pain.

*Exercise – General exercises help to build muscle strength and restore normal spine functions. Stretching and strengthening exercises are generally recommended.

Treatment programs would also include the administration of muscle relaxants as well as spinal adjustments.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.