Scoliosis

Science:

Scoliosis is the abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It ranges from different degrees depending on the person or the severeness of the scoliosis.

There are multiple causes and cases of scoliosis. Degenerative scoliosis may result from traumatic (from an injury or illness) bone collapse, previous major back surgery, or osteoporosis(thinning of the bones) Idiopathic Scoliosis is the e common type of scoliosis has no specific identifiable cause. Congenital Scoliosis caused by a bone abnormality present at birth. Neuromuscular Scoliosis is a result of abnormal muscles or nerves. Frequently seen in people with spina bifida or cerebral palsy or in those with various conditions that are accompanied by, or result in, paralysis.

There are certain cases that can be corrected by surgery or a back brace. The back brace can’t fix scoliosis but it can straighten and keep it from getting worse. It basically acts like a stabilizer.

Society: Approximately 2%-3% of Americans at age 16 have scoliosis. Less than .1% have spinal curves measuring greater than 40 degrees. Scoliosis is diagnosed by Most scoliosis curves are initially detected on school screening exams, by a child’s pediatrician, or family doctor or by a parent. Some signs include: uneven shoulders, a prominent shoulder blade, uneven waist, or leaning to one side. Speciality hospitals like Shriner’s children’s hospital can do screenings and X-rays to evaluate the magnitude of the curve. Girls are more likely to be affected than boys.

Self: