Understanding Scoliosis - What Parents Need to Know
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a medical condition that causes the spine to curve sideways. The curvature of the spine can be in the shape of an "S" or "C". It can affect any part of the spine but is most common in the chest and lower back regions. Scoliosis can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15.
However, some cases of scoliosis are caused by underlying medical conditions, such as muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a genetic condition called Marfan syndrome. Rarely, scoliosis can also be caused by a tumour or infection.
In many cases, scoliosis does not cause any symptoms, and the curvature of the spine is only discovered during a routine physical examination. However, some children and adolescents may experience the following symptoms:
1. Uneven shoulders or hips
2. A rib hump on one side of the back
3. Back pain or discomfort
If your child experiences these symptoms, consult a doctor or spine specialist.
Diagnosis of Scoliosis
The diagnosis of scoliosis is usually made during a physical examination. The doctor will examine your child's spine for any signs of curvature, and they may ask your child to bend forward to check for any abnormalities. If scoliosis is suspected, the doctor may order an X-ray of the spine to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the curvature.
Treatment Options for Scoliosis
The treatment options for scoliosis depend on the curvature's severity and the child's age. Mild cases of scoliosis may not require treatment, but regular monitoring of the curvature may be necessary to ensure that it does not worsen. In more severe cases, treatment options may include:
Observation:
For mild cases of scoliosis, the doctor may recommend regular monitoring of the curvature to ensure that it does not worsen. It may involve X-rays every six months to a year.
Bracing: For more severe cases of scoliosis, the doctor may recommend a brace to help straighten the spine. Bracing is most effective in children who are still growing and whose bones are still developing. The brace is worn for 16 to 23 hours a day and may need to be worn for several years.
Surgery:Surgery: In the most severe cases of scoliosis, surgery may be necessary to straighten the spine. The most common type of scoliosis surgery is spinal fusion, where two or more vertebrae are fused to straighten the spine. Surgery is usually only recommended if the curvature of the spine is greater than 40 to 50 degrees and the child is still growing.
How to Help Your Child Cope with Scoliosis
Being diagnosed with scoliosis can be difficult for children and adolescents, and it is essential to support your child and help them cope with the condition. Here are some tips to help your child:
Educate yourself and your child: Learn as much as possible about scoliosis to answer your child's questions and provide reassurance.
Please encourage your child to Communicate openly with your child: Encourage them to talk about their feelings and concerns about scoliosis. Listen to their worries and provide emotional support.
Encourage physical activity: Physical activity can help improve your child's posture and reduce back pain. Please encourage your child to participate in activities that do not aggravate their condition.
Help your child cope with wearing a brace: Wearing a brace can be uncomfortable and make your child self-conscious. Please encourage your child to decorate their brace and make it their own.
Find a support group: Finding a support group for children with scoliosis can help your child feel less isolated and provide them with emotional support.
While the cause of scoliosis is unknown in most cases, it can be diagnosed during a physical examination and confirmed with an X-ray. Treatment options depend on the severity of the curvature and may include observation, bracing, or surgery. Educating yourself about scoliosis, providing emotional support to your child, and encouraging physical activity is essential as a parent. Children with scoliosis can lead entire and active lives with proper care and support.