What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a problem with the curve in your spine. Some curves in your spine are normal. But a few people have spines that make a large curve from side to side in the shape of the letter
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a problem with the curve in your spine. Some curves in your spine are normal. But a few people have spines that make a large curve from side to side in the shape of the letter "S" or the letter "C." If this curve is severe, it can cause pain and make breathing difficult.
The good news is that most cases of scoliosis are mild. If found early, they can usually be prevented from getting worse.
What causes scoliosis?
In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is not known. Scoliosis usually starts in childhood. Scoliosis that is severe enough to need treatment is most common in girls.
A curve in the spine may get worse as your child grows, so it is important to find any problem early.
What are the symptoms?
Scoliosis most often causes no symptoms in your child until the spinal curve becomes large. You might notice these early signs:
In adults, scoliosis may cause back pain and trouble breathing.
How is scoliosis diagnosed?
The doctor will check to see if your child's back or ribs are even. If the doctor finds that one side is higher than the other, your child may need an X-ray so the spinal curve can be measured.
Scoliosis is most serious in young children who are still growing. A curve in the spine may get worse as your child grows. So many experts believe screening your child for scoliosis is important so that any curve in the spine can be found early and watched closely.
How is it treated?
Mild cases of scoliosis usually do not need treatment. Your doctor will check the curve of your child's spine every 4 to 6 months. If the curve gets worse, your child may need to wear a brace until he or she has finished growing. In severe cases, or if bracing doesn't help, your child may need to have surgery.
Scoliosis and its treatment can be a severe strain on your child. Wearing a brace can feel and look odd. It also limits your child's activity. Your child needs your support and understanding to get through treatments successfully.
What increases the risk of scoliosis?
Your child may be more likely to have scoliosis if someone in your family has had it and if your child is a girl. Other things that increase the chance of scoliosis include:
Frequently Asked Questions
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