Scoliosis Awareness

There are many issues that can develop with the back. One development that occurs while the back is developing is Scoliosis. This sideways curve of the spine occurs most often during a growth spurt that occurs just before puberty. Conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy are other common conditions that can bring on Scoliosis.

Scoliosis is often mild but may develop into spine deformities. These spine deformities may get worst as the body grows. Scoliosis can be disabling severe spinal curve that reduce amount of space in the chest area, this leads to the lungs not be able to work right.

Mild cases of scoliosis are monitored by x-rays. Many times treatment is not needed, other times a brace will be needed to stop the curve from getting worst. Some may need surgery in severe cases.

Signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include:

• shoulders being uneven
• uneven waist
• one shoulder blade more prominent than the other

In the worst case of scoliosis the spine will rotate or twist. If the spine rotates or twist then the ribs on one side will stick out farther than on the other side. 

If any sign or symptom of scoliosis should occur in your child, then it is time to go to the doctor. Even mild curves can develop without the parent or child realizing. Curves normally appear gradually without pain. Teachers, friends, and sport teammates may be first to notice signs of scoliosis.

Causes of this type of spine curve are not known. Scoliosis is thought to appear to involve hereditary factors, the disorder tends to run in families. Other common types of scoliosis may be caused by:

• birth defects that affect the spine
• injuries or infections of the spine
• girls are more prone
• scoliosis can run in families 

Long term issues that may result if scoliosis is severe can include heart and lung damage. Adults who suffered with scoliosis as children most likely will suffer with chronic back pain Severe scoliosis can may cause noticeable physical changes including prominent ribs, uneven shoulders and / or hips, sideways shift of the individuals waist or trunk of othe body.