ROWAN BERKOWITZ BLOG

4 Facts every parent should know about Scoliosis

In this blog we cover 4 facts every parent should know Scoliosis, a common spine condition often found in children and adolescents.

Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. While many scoliosis types have a known cause (such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, or birth defects), by far the most common type of Scoliosis, known as idiopathic, have no known cause. 

Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some curves worsen as children grow. Children with mild scoliosis are monitored closely, usually with X-rays, to see if the curve worsens. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In many cases small idiopathic Scoliosis curves can be managed with Scoliosis-specific physical therapy only (Schroth, SEAS, etc.). However, in some cases some children need to wear a brace to prevent the curve from worsening. For significant Scoliosis cases, surgery may be the only option to straighten severe curves. 

Here are 4 facts every parent should know about Scoliosis.

1. Early diagnosis of Scoliosis is key!

Parents need to ensure their children receive regular checkups for conditions like Scoliosis to be diagnosed and managed early. Once Scoliosis has been diagnosed, a specialist can determine a treatment plan that prevents a more significant curve from forming during times of growth.

Mild conditions can develop without you or your child even knowing. This could be because the appearance is gradual and usually doesn’t cause pain. Go to your doctor if you suspect signs of Scoliosis in your child.  

2. Signs of Scoliosis

Generally, Scoliosis is a painless condition that may go unnoticed until a routine examination or physical screening. Common signs of Scoliosis include:

  • Uneven shoulders and shoulder blades
  • Constant leaning to one side
  • Uneven leg length
  • Prominent shoulder blade
  • Uneven hips or elevated hips

If you notice any of these signs in your child, contact a Scoliosis expert to have your child screened.

3. Most cases of Scoliosis have no known cause.

Stop worrying; you did not do anything to cause Scoliosis! The exact reason your spine curved remains to be unknown; that’s what “idiopathic” means – simply put, we don’t know why it occurs. Scoliosis is a fascinating condition because there is no known cause or prevention method. It is not from wearing a heavy backpack; it is not from an incorrect sleep position; it is also not from having poor posture. There was nothing you could have done to prevent getting Scoliosis.

4. All Scoliosis curves are unique 

Most patients with mild Scoliosis at skeletal maturity (after the spine stops growing), will continue to lead an everyday life with no limitations on activities, including sports. For patients with a more significant curve, however, there may be a higher likelihood that the curve will continue to progress into adulthood. Although the curve can progress gradually over a lifetime, this can add up to a significant curve that can be more difficult to correct and may impact the quality of the patient’s life.

A simple 2-minute evaluation of your child will indicate if further investigation is required. Click below to view and download a self-assessment guide.

Please remember that to be sure your child has Scoliosis; a proper diagnosis has to be made by a medical practitioner or Scoliosis professional. Please get in contact with us if you have any questions or concerns: Call now