Everything you need to know
Scoliosis
Approximately three million men, women, and children are diagnosed with scoliosis each year in the United States. Ortho Spine Life offers thorough diagnostics and comprehensive care for scoliosis. If you’ve recently been diagnosed and are wondering where to go from here, the team at Ortho Spine Life can help. Book an appointment to sit down with a specialist and learn more.
What are some common symptoms of scoliosis?
Scoliosis can be hard to detect, which is why it’s so important to schedule routine physical exams. Some of the more common symptoms include:
• A shoulder blade that is more defined than the other
• Uneven shoulders
• One hip that sits higher than the others
• Uneven waist curvature
Researchers aren’t sure of the exact causes of scoliosis, but it’s believed that there is a genetic component. Additional causal factors include spinal infection or injury, birth defects, or certain neurological conditions.
What are some common causes of scoliosis?
If your primary care physician or your child’s pediatrician suspects you have scoliosis, you might be referred to an orthopedic specialist like those found at Ortho Spine Life. The diagnostic process includes a physical exam to look for signs of the condition. A neurological exam follows, and checks for signs of numbness, muscle weakness, or abnormal reflexes. X-ray imaging shows the alignment of your spine and the degree of abnormal curvature. You might also need additional imaging to look for underlying conditions.
How is scoliosis treated?
Treatment depends on the degree of spinal curvature and how it impacts your daily life.
Medical brace
When a child is diagnosed with scoliosis, bracing is among the most common treatments. A medical brace can’t restore optimal spine positioning, but it can prevent further curvature from developing. Once a child’s bones are finished growing, bracing is no longer necessary.
Surgery
Surgery is another option and can prevent additional curving. Spinal fusion is one approach and works by connecting two or more vertebrae to reduce movement in that portion of your spine. A system of metal rods, screws, wires, and hooks hold the targeted bones
ORTHO PAIN
Common ortho pain areas.
SPINE PAIN