Understanding Scoliosis – What It Is and Why It Matters
Scoliosis is a term that often comes up during medical checkups, especially in adolescence. You might have heard of it in passing, or perhaps a healthcare professional mentioned it during your childhood or teenage years. But what exactly is scoliosis?
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a condition affecting the spine, causing it to curve sideways by more than 10 degrees. When viewed from the back, this curve can look like an “S” or “C” shape. While it’s most commonly noticed in adolescents, scoliosis can also affect elderly adults. It tends to appear more frequently in girls, often with a family history of the condition.
Why Does Scoliosis Happen?
For the most common type of scoliosis, no clear cause is known. However, some cases are associated with specific conditions such as neurological, congenital, traumatic, or degenerative issues. If untreated, scoliosis can lead to spinal deformities, chronic pain, and even early spinal degeneration.
Signs of Scoliosis to Watch For
Scoliosis doesn’t always cause pain, which means it can go unnoticed. But physical cues can help identify it early, particularly in children during growth spurts. Here are some signs:
Uneven shoulders or hips
A crease on one side of the waist but not the other
Leaning to one side
One shoulder blade sticking out more
An “S” or “C” shape in the spine when viewed from the back
One side of the back or ribs sticking out more when bending forward
Early detection is key, as the condition can progress rapidly. Being aware of these symptoms can help you or your loved ones catch scoliosis in its early stages and seek appropriate treatment.