Scoliosis is something people hear about often, but may not know that much about the condition.
Scoliosis is a disorder in which the spine curves to form a ‘C’ or ‘S’ shape. Though scoliosis can affect people of all ages, it’s most common in children ages 10 – 12 because this is the time when children grow quickly.
Diagnosing, Treating, and Monitoring Scoliosis
Scoliosis is usually detected during a school screening exam, a routine visit with a pediatrician, or by a parent. Types of scoliosis include:
- Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis. It’s usually diagnosed during routine visits.
- Congenital scoliosis is developed in utero and is present in infancy. It’s extremely rare, affecting only one in 10,000 infants each year.
- Neuromuscular scoliosis, or myopathic scoliosis, typically develops in people with neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy.
- Degenerative scoliosis, or adult scoliosis, is a common condition that occurs as the spine degenerates over time.
Treatments for scoliosis depend on a person’s age, how much they’ll grow, the degree or pattern of the curve, and the type of scoliosis. Most common treatment options include
Back Braces
Bracing is the most common treatment for scoliosis for patients who have a curve between 25 to 40 degrees.
Back Surgery
If a scoliosis curve is more than 40 degrees, doctors usually consider scoliosis surgery in order to prevent further progression of the curve. Scoliosis surgery usually involves spinal fusion, which is joining the vertebrae together permanently. Because fusion usually stops further growth of the fused part of the spine, this technique is not used on children.
Treating Scoliosis in Greensboro, High Point, and Kernersville
The physicians at Spine & Scoliosis Specialists can provide you with the proper treatment if you have scoliosis. Call our office at 336-333-6306 to schedule an appointment to diagnose and treat scoliosis.