Scoliosis: Causes, Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

Table of Contents

What Causes Scoliosis?
Types of Scoliosis

Other types of scoliosis

How Is Scoliosis Prevented?
How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Scoliosis Treatment
How to Cope with Scoliosis and Improve Your Well-Being?
Frequently Asked Questions About Scoliosis

Can scoliosis be cured?
Can scoliosis cause back pain?
Can scoliosis affect height?
What happens if scoliosis is left untreated?

Summary

Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways, forming an S-shape or a C-shape. It can affect people of any age, but it usually develops during childhood or adolescence, when the spine is still growing. Scoliosis can cause various symptoms, such as back pain, uneven shoulders, hips, or waist, difficulty breathing, and reduced mobility. Scoliosis can also affect the appearance and self-esteem of the person who has it.

What Causes Scoliosis?

The causes of scoliosis are not fully understood, but they may include genetic factors, birth defects, injuries, infections, tumors, or other diseases that affect the spine or the nerves. Some cases of scoliosis are mild and do not require any treatment, while others are more severe and may need braces, surgery, or other interventions to prevent the curve from getting worse and to correct the spinal deformity.

Types of Scoliosis

There are different types of scoliosis, depending on the age of onset, the location and shape of the curve, and the underlying cause. The main types of scoliosis are:

Idiopathic scoliosis
Infantile idiopathic scoliosis
Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Congenital scoliosis
Neuromuscular scoliosis
Degenerative scoliosis
Other

Idiopathic scoliosis: This is the most common type of scoliosis, accounting for about 80% of all cases. Idiopathic means that the cause is unknown, but it may involve genetic or environmental factors. Idiopathic scoliosis can be classified into three subtypes, based on the age of onset:

Infantile idiopathic scoliosis: This occurs in children younger than 3 years old. It is more common in boys than girls, and it usually affects the thoracic spine (the upper part of the back). It may resolve spontaneously or progress to more severe forms of scoliosis.

Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis: This occurs in children between 3 and 10 years old. It is more common in girls than boys, and it usually affects the thoracic or lumbar spine (the lower part of the back). It has a high risk of progression and may need early treatment to prevent complications.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: This occurs in children older than 10 years old, and it is the most prevalent subtype of idiopathic scoliosis. It is more common in girls than boys, and it usually affects the thoracic or thoracolumbar spine (the middle part of the back). It may worsen during growth spurts and puberty, and it may cause cosmetic and functional problems.

Congenital scoliosis: This is a rare type of scoliosis, accounting for about 5% of all cases. Congenital means that the condition is present at birth, and it is caused by a malformation of the spine or the ribs during fetal development. Congenital scoliosis can affect any part of the spine, and it may be associated with other birth defects or syndromes. It may be detected during pregnancy or shortly after birth, and it may need surgery to correct the spinal abnormality.

Neuromuscular scoliosis: This is a type of scoliosis that occurs in people with neurological or muscular disorders, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, or spinal cord injury. These conditions can affect the balance and strength of the muscles that support the spine, leading to a loss of spinal stability and alignment. Neuromuscular scoliosis can affect any part of the spine, and it may be progressive and severe. It may cause pain, breathing difficulties, and pressure sores. It may need braces, surgery, or other treatments to improve the quality of life of the person who has it.

Degenerative scoliosis: This is a type of scoliosis that occurs in adults, usually after the age of 40. It is caused by the wear and tear of the spine due to aging, arthritis, osteoporosis, or previous injuries or surgeries. Degenerative scoliosis can affect the lumbar or cervical spine (the neck), and it may cause back pain, stiffness, nerve compression, and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). It may need medication, physical therapy, injections, or surgery to relieve the symptoms and prevent further damage.

Other types of scoliosis

There are some other less common types of scoliosis, such as:

Syndromic scoliosis
Traumatic scoliosis
Iatrogenic scoliosis

Syndromic scoliosis: This is a type of scoliosis that occurs as part of a genetic syndrome, such as Marfan syndrome, Down syndrome, or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. These syndromes can affect the connective tissue, the bones, or the nerves, and cause various symptoms and complications, including scoliosis.

Traumatic scoliosis: This is a type of scoliosis that occurs as a result of a trauma or injury to the spine, such as a fracture, a dislocation, or a wound. It may cause pain, inflammation, infection, or deformity of the spine.

Iatrogenic scoliosis: This is a type of scoliosis that occurs as a complication of a medical procedure or treatment, such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. It may cause damage, infection, or instability of the spine.

How Is Scoliosis Prevented?

Scoliosis cannot be prevented in most cases, as the causes are often unknown or beyond control. However, some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing or worsening scoliosis, such as:

Getting regular checkups and screenings for scoliosis, especially during childhood and adolescence, when the spine is still growing. Early detection and treatment can prevent the curve from progressing and causing complications.
Maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet, as obesity and malnutrition can affect the growth and development of the spine and the muscles that support it.
Practicing good posture and ergonomics, as poor posture and habits can strain the spine and the muscles that support it. For example, avoid slouching, hunching, or leaning to one side when sitting, standing, or walking. Use a chair, desk, and computer that are comfortable and fit your body size and shape. Avoid carrying heavy or uneven loads, such as backpacks, purses, or suitcases.
Doing regular exercises and stretches, as physical activity can help to strengthen and stretch the muscles and ligaments of the spine and the core, and improve the flexibility and alignment of the spine. Some exercises that are beneficial for scoliosis include swimming, yoga, pilates, and tai chi. However, avoid exercises that involve twisting, bending, or lifting heavy objects, as they can worsen the pain or cause injury. Consult your doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise program, and follow their instructions and recommendations.
Avoiding smoking and alcohol, as these substances can affect the health and function of the spine and the nerves that control it. Smoking can impair blood flow and oxygen delivery to the spine, and increase the risk of infection and inflammation. Alcohol can affect the balance and coordination of the body, and increase the risk of falls and injuries.

How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?

To diagnose scoliosis, a doctor will ask about the symptoms, medical history, and activities that may cause or worsen the condition. The doctor will also examine the spine and perform some tests to check the curvature and rotation of the spine, and the function and sensation of the nerves and muscles. The doctor may also order some imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause of scoliosis.

Some of the tests that the doctor may use to diagnose scoliosis include:

Scoliometer
Cobb angle
Risser sign
Sanders score

Scoliometer: This is a device that measures the angle of trunk rotation (ATR), which is the degree of twisting of the spine. The doctor will place the scoliometer on the back of the patient, who will bend forward from the waist. If the ATR is more than 7 degrees, it may indicate scoliosis.

Cobb angle: This is a measurement of the angle of the spinal curve on an X-ray image. The doctor will draw lines along the top and bottom of the most tilted vertebrae at each end of the curve, and measure the angle between them. If the Cobb angle is more than 10 degrees, it may indicate scoliosis.

Risser sign: This is a measurement of the skeletal maturity of the patient, based on the degree of ossification (bone formation) of the iliac crest (the top of the hip bone). The doctor will look at an X-ray image of the pelvis and assign a score from 0 to 5, where 0 means no ossification and 5 means complete ossification. The higher the Risser sign, the lower the risk of curve progression.

Sanders score: This is another measurement of the skeletal maturity of the patient, based on the degree of ossification of the vertebral endplates (the top and bottom surfaces of the vertebrae). The doctor will look at an MRI image of the spine and assign a score from 1 to 8, where 1 means no ossification and 8 means complete ossification. The higher the Sanders score, the lower the risk of curve progression.

Scoliosis Treatment

The treatment for scoliosis depends on the type, location, and severity of the curve, the patient's age, growth potential, and preferences, and the doctor's recommendations. The main goals of scoliosis treatment are to stop or slow the curve from progressing, prevent or reduce pain and complications, improve posture and appearance, and enhance quality of life. The treatment options for scoliosis include:

Observation
Bracing
Surgery

Observation: This is the option for mild cases of scoliosis, where the curve is less than 25 degrees and the patient is still growing, or where the curve is less than 40 degrees and the patient has reached skeletal maturity. Observation involves regular checkups and X-rays to monitor the curve and see if it is getting worse. Observation may also involve some exercises and stretches to improve the muscle strength and flexibility of the spine and the core.

Bracing: This is the option for moderate cases of scoliosis, where the curve is between 25 and 40 degrees and the patient is still growing. Bracing involves wearing a device that fits around the torso and applies pressure to the spine to prevent the curve from getting worse. There are different types of braces, such as rigid braces, soft braces, or dynamic braces, and they can be worn full-time or part-time, depending on the doctor's prescription. Bracing does not correct the existing curve, but it may delay or avoid the need for surgery. Bracing may also involve some exercises and stretches to maintain the muscle strength and flexibility of the spine and the core.

Surgery: This is the option for severe cases of scoliosis, where the curve is more than 40 degrees and the patient is still growing, or where the curve is more than 50 degrees and the patient has reached skeletal maturity. Surgery involves inserting metal rods, screws, hooks, or wires into the spine to correct the curve and hold it in place. The surgery can be done through an open incision, or through a minimally invasive technique, such as endoscopic or robotic surgery. The surgery can also involve fusing some of the vertebrae together, using bone grafts or synthetic materials, to prevent the curve from recurring. Surgery can improve the appearance and function of the spine, but it may also have some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or failure of the fusion. Surgery requires general anesthesia, and a hospital stay of several days. The recovery time may vary from several months to a year, depending on the type of surgery, the patient's condition, and the rehabilitation program.

How to Cope with Scoliosis and Improve Your Well-Being?

Scoliosis can affect not only the physical health, but also the mental and emotional well-being of the person who has it. Scoliosis can cause pain, discomfort, difficulty breathing, reduced mobility, and cosmetic concerns, which can affect the self-esteem, confidence, and quality of life of the person who has it. Therefore, it is important to cope with scoliosis and improve your well-being, by taking some steps, such as:

Seek professional help: You should consult your doctor or physical therapist for advice and guidance on the best treatment and prevention options for your specific case of scoliosis. You should also follow their instructions and recommendations, and report any changes or problems that you may experience. You should also seek psychological help, such as counseling or therapy, if you feel depressed, anxious, or stressed about your condition. You may also benefit from joining a support group, where you can share your feelings and experiences with other people who have scoliosis.

Educate yourself: You should learn as much as you can about scoliosis, its causes, effects, and treatments, and how to manage it and improve your well-being. You can read books, articles, or websites, watch videos, or listen to podcasts, that provide reliable and accurate information about scoliosis. You can also ask questions and seek clarifications from your health care providers, or from other sources, such as online forums or blogs. Educating yourself can help you understand your condition better, and make informed decisions about your care.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: You should maintain a healthy lifestyle, by eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. These habits can help you nourish your body, boost your immune system, and prevent or reduce pain and inflammation. You should also exercise regularly, with proper warm-up and stretching, and with low-impact activities, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise can help you strengthen and stretch the muscles and ligaments of the spine and the core, and improve the flexibility and alignment of the spine. Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, and improve mood and quality of life.

Use adaptive devices and aids: You should use adaptive devices and aids, such as braces, pillows, cushions, or mattresses, that can provide support, comfort, and pain relief to your spine and body. You should also use ergonomic equipment and furniture, such as chairs, desks, keyboards, and mice, that can fit your body size and shape, and allow you to change your position or posture frequently. You should also wear supportive shoes and clothing, that can provide cushioning and stability for your feet and ankles, and avoid putting too much pressure or friction on your spine. These devices and aids can help you improve your posture and appearance, and prevent or reduce pain and complications.

Seek social support: You should seek social support, from your family, friends, or other people who care about you. You should share your feelings and experiences with them, and ask for their help and encouragement. You should also participate in activities that you enjoy, such as hobbies, sports, or volunteering, and interact with people who share your interests and values. You should also avoid people who are negative, judgmental, or unsupportive of you. Seeking social support can help you cope with scoliosis, and improve your self-esteem, confidence, and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scoliosis

Here are some frequently asked questions about scoliosis, and their answers.

Can scoliosis be cured?

Scoliosis cannot be cured in most cases, as the causes are often unknown or beyond control. However, scoliosis can be treated and managed with various methods, such as braces, surgery, or physical therapy, depending on the type, location, and severity of the curve, the patient's preferences, and the doctor's recommendations. The main goals of treatment are to stop or slow the curve from progressing, prevent or reduce pain and complications, improve posture and appearance, and enhance quality of life.

Can scoliosis cause back pain?

Scoliosis can cause back pain in some cases, especially if the curve is large or severe, or if it affects the lumbar or cervical spine. The pain can result from the abnormal curvature and rotation of the spine, which can strain the muscles, ligaments, and joints that support the spine. The pain can also result from the pressure or compression of the spinal cord or nerves, which can cause inflammation, irritation, or damage. The pain can vary in intensity and duration, and it can affect the daily activities and quality of life of the person who has it.

Can scoliosis affect height?

Scoliosis can affect height in some cases, especially if the curve is large or severe, or if it affects the thoracic spine. The abnormal curvature and rotation of the spine can reduce the vertical height of the spine, and cause the person to appear shorter than they actually are. The loss of height can also affect the alignment and function of the organs, such as the lungs and heart, and cause breathing difficulties or cardiovascular problems. The loss of height can also affect the appearance and self-esteem of the person who has it.

What happens if scoliosis is left untreated?

If scoliosis is left untreated, the spinal curve may continue to worsen, causing pain, deformity, and complications. The complications may include reduced lung function, heart problems, nerve damage, and spinal arthritis. The risk of progression and complications depends on the type, location, and severity of the curve, as well as the age and growth potential of the patient.

Summary

Scoliosis can be treated with observation, bracing, surgery, or physical therapy, depending on the type, location, and severity of the curve, the patient's age, growth potential, and preferences, and the doctor's recommendations. The main goals of treatment are to stop or slow the curve from progressing, prevent or reduce pain and complications, improve posture and appearance, and enhance quality of life.

Scoliosis cannot be prevented in most cases, as the causes are often unknown or beyond control. However, some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing or worsening scoliosis, such as getting regular checkups and screenings, maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet, practicing good posture and ergonomics, doing regular exercises and stretches, avoiding smoking and alcohol, using adaptive devices and aids, and seeking professional and social support.

We hope this article has helped you understand more about scoliosis, its types and treatment options. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult your doctor or physical therapist for advice and guidance. And if you are looking for a high-quality and affordable brace for scoliosis, you can order the Back Brace for Lower Back Pain - Lumbar Support Belt for Women & Men from Zofore Sport online and get free shipping and delivery within the US. Don't wait any longer and get yours today!

References

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) “Scoliosis in Children and Teens”
American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) “Scoliosis”
MedlinePlus “Scoliosis”
WebMD “Scoliosis”
Spine-health “Scoliosis: What You Need to Know”

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