Dr. Ashish S Naik

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, forming an "S" or "C" shape. It can develop at any age but is most commonly seen in adolescents. There are several types of scoliosis, including idiopathic scoliosis (the most common form, with no known cause), congenital scoliosis (present at birth due to malformations of the spine), and neuromuscular scoliosis (associated with neurological or muscular conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy).

Symptoms of Scoliosis:

• Uneven shoulders or waist
• One shoulder blade more prominent than the other
• Rib hump on one side when bending forward
• Back pain, especially in adults
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases due to lung compression)

Treatment Options:

Treatment depends on the severity of the curve, the patient's age, and the likelihood of the condition progressing.

1. Conservative Treatment:

• Observation: For mild curves (less than 20 degrees), regular monitoring is recommended to assess if the curve worsens.
• Bracing: In growing adolescents with moderate curves (20-40 degrees), bracing can help prevent further curvature. Bracing doesn’t cure scoliosis but can stop its progression in some cases.
• Physical Therapy: Aimed at strengthening core muscles, improving posture, and increasing flexibility. Exercises such as Schroth therapy are specifically designed for scoliosis patients.

2. Surgical Treatment:

• Spinal Fusion Surgery: Recommended for severe curves (greater than 40-50 degrees) or if conservative treatments fail. The goal is to straighten and fuse the vertebrae to prevent further progression.
• Vertebral Body Tethering: A newer technique used in select cases to allow for continued spinal growth while correcting the curvature.