Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine, often discovered during a physical exam or screening. Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases may need a brace or surgery. Maintaining an active lifestyle is recommended.
The term “scoliosis” refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine. Scoliosis could be present at birth or could develop later in life due to neuromuscular or unknown problems. The condition is quite common, particularly among girls, and usually becomes apparent right before a person goes through puberty. Mild scoliosis typically refers to a small curvature of the spine when few troubling symptoms are present. With a diagnosis of mild scoliosis, the curvature is usually less than 20 degrees, although the actual diagnosis varies from person to person.
For a person who has a mild case of scoliosis, symptoms are often mild or non-existent. The spine may curve gradually and the curve may go unnoticed. Some visual indications of scoliosis are uneven shoulders, hips or waist. The individual may experience some back pain or mild discomfort. If scoliosis becomes more severe and left untreated, the pain can eventually get worse or lead to more serious problems.
Scoliosis is often discovered during a routine physical exam or screening. During a screening, the individual bends over and the doctor examines the back from behind to look for an abnormal spinal curve. If your doctor notices an abnormality, he or she may take an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the curvature.
For most people with mild scoliosis, immediate treatment is not needed. In many cases, the curvature stays the same and doesn’t get worse. For a child or teenager who has scoliosis and is still growing, the doctor would probably suggest regular checkups every four to six months to monitor for any changes.
If a doctor decides that treatment is needed, they may suggest several options. A doctor might recommend a brace to prevent further curvature of the spine, particularly if the patient is still growing. If the case progresses to more severe scoliosis, a doctor might suggest surgery to reduce the severity and prevent further curvature. A doctor would base his or her treatment recommendations on the patient’s age and gender and the severity, location, and pattern of the spinal curve.
For patients with a mild case of scoliosis, the prognosis is usually good. In most cases, scoliosis will not progress or will require treatment. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the lower the risk of long-term problems.
Some professionals find that chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, or exercise can help with mild scoliosis. Studies have indicated that these treatments are not effective in treating scoliosis. All individuals with mild scoliosis, however, should maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.
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