Scoliosis (Spinal Curvature): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Scoliosis (Spinal Curvature): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a spinal disorder defined as a sideways curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or more, usually forming an “S” or “C” shape on X-rays. While a healthy spine appears as a straight line when viewed from behind, in scoliosis, this alignment is disrupted—most commonly in the thoracic (mid-back) or lumbar (lower back) regions.

What Causes Scoliosis?

The exact cause of scoliosis is not always known, but several factors are believed to contribute:

• Idiopathic Scoliosis: Most common type, especially in adolescent girls. The cause remains unknown.
• Congenital Scoliosis: Results from malformations of the spine during fetal development.
• Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Caused by underlying neurological or muscular disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy).
• Degenerative Scoliosis: Develops in older adults due to spine wear-and-tear.
• Syndromic Scoliosis: Associated with genetic syndromes like Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos.
• Postural Scoliosis: Temporary curvature due to poor posture or leg length discrepancies.

Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis

Common physical signs include:

• Uneven shoulder height
• Prominent shoulder blade on one side
• Back or lower back pain
• Rib hump or chest wall asymmetry
• Uneven hips
• One side of the back appears higher when bending forward
• Imbalanced posture

Types of Scoliosis

• Idiopathic Scoliosis
• Congenital Scoliosis
• Neuromuscular Scoliosis
• Degenerative (Adult) Scoliosis
• Syndromic Scoliosis
• Postural Scoliosis

Scoliosis Degrees and Evaluation

The Cobb angle is used to measure the degree of spinal curvature on X-rays:

• 0–10°: Spinal asymmetry – no treatment needed, just monitoring
• 10–20°: Mild scoliosis – physical therapy and observation
• 20–40°: Moderate scoliosis – bracing and physiotherapy
• >40°: Severe scoliosis – surgical evaluation recommended

How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

• Physical examination by a specialist
• Medical and family history review
• Spinal X-rays (Cobb angle measurement)
• MRI or additional imaging if needed

Treatment Options for Scoliosis

Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatments

• Scoliosis bracing to prevent curve progression
• Physical therapy and special exercise techniques (e.g., Schroth, Bobath, Vojta)
• Pain management with medications
• Routine physiotherapy and regular monitoring

Surgical Treatments

• Spinal fusion surgery (permanently joining affected vertebrae)
• Non-fusion scoliosis correction (for growing children or flexible curves)

Surgery is generally advised for curves over 50 degrees or when non-surgical approaches fail.

Post-Surgical Considerations

• Monitor for risks like infection or bleeding
• Discharge usually occurs within 14 days
• Intraoperative neuromonitoring minimizes nerve damage risk
• Post-op rehabilitation and physical therapy are critical

Managing Scoliosis in Daily Life

• Practice proper posture and alignment
• Engage in light exercises like swimming or walking
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Choose appropriate mattresses and pillows
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Seek psychological support if needed
• Attend regular medical follow-ups

What Happens if Scoliosis Is Left Untreated?

Untreated scoliosis can worsen over time and lead to deformities in the rib cage, impairing lung function—especially in children. Severe curvatures (80–100 degrees) can pose life-threatening complications by affecting respiratory and cardiac systems.

Conclusion

Scoliosis is more than a cosmetic issue—it can significantly affect quality of life and overall health. With early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing follow-up, scoliosis can be effectively managed. Treatment is a long-term commitment that requires active participation from both the patient and their family.

Early detection and proper treatment can prevent complications and support a healthy, active life.