Scoliosis has four main curve types: thoracic, lumbar, thoracolumbar, and double major. It typically occurs in childhood and can cause uneven shoulders, waist, and hips. Severe curves may require medical intervention. The thoracic curve can cause cardiopulmonary problems, while the double major curve causes the spine to curve like the letter S. The thoracolumbar curve runs from the upper to the lower back and can cause severe rib sprain.
There are four main types of scoliosis curves or patterns. The most common is the thoracic curve which afflicts the upper back. A lumbar curve affects the lower back. A curve that runs the full length of the spire is thoracolumbar, and a double major curve bends the back to the left and right. Scoliosis curves are often shaped like the letters S or C.
Scoliosis, a lateral or unusual curvature of the spine, typically occurs in childhood just before the onset of puberty. In most cases, the cause is unknown, although muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy can both cause scoliosis curves, and the condition tends to run in families. Most cases are mild and don’t need treatment, but a more pronounced curve may require medical intervention ranging from bracing to surgery.
Symptoms of scoliosis curves include uneven shoulders or waist and one hip higher than the other. A larger curve is more likely to progress than a slight one. Large curves can cause back pain, make it difficult for the patient to breathe, and lead to joint pain and damage. A child suspected of suffering from scoliosis should see a doctor as soon as possible.
The main chest pattern is the most typical of the scoliosis curve types. A thoracic bend will often bend the upper spine to the right in a C shape. Because the vertebrae are severely rotated in these cases, this type of bend can cause cardiopulmonary problems and rib malformations.
A lumbar curve is similar to a thoracic pattern, except the former affects the lower back. This type of scoliosis curve also tends to the left versus the right. Because this area of the spine is able to maintain flexibility over time, a lumbar curve is usually not considered a serious condition. It is often monitored for signs of arthritis or stiffening as the patient ages.
One of the most severe curves of scoliosis is the double major curve. It causes the spine to curve like the letter S, first to the right and then to the left, and can be difficult to identify because it looks like a small curvature on X-rays. The two curves are approximately the same size. A major double curve may cause the patient’s trunk to appear short.
The longest and most unusual scoliosis curve pattern is the thoracolumbar. This type can curve to the left or right and runs from the upper back to the lower back. A patient’s deformity may be minor with this type of pattern, but severe rib sprain can result.
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