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Scoliosis is a condition characterized by the abnormal curvature of the spine. Unlike the natural front-to-back curvature, scoliosis involves a lateral deviation. In its early stages, it may be mild and remain asymptomatic. The disorder is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence. At this stage, management options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical intervention depending on the severity of the curve.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis, deformities and lateral curvatures in the waist and chest regions of the spine. Spinal curvature, which is an orthopedic disorder, can occur alone or together with kyphosis or humpback. Although the causes of scoliosis are not known exactly, it may occur due to disorders such as cerebral palsy. However, congenital or acquired scoliosis can also be caused by vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, spinal injuries, infections and hereditary factors.
The onset of scoliosis can occur anywhere in the spine. Scoliosis, which can occur at birth or later, can affect people of all ages; however, it usually occurs during adolescence. Symptoms such as swelling on the back, asymmetric stance of the shoulders and hips are effective in the initial understanding of scoliosis.
Scoliosis Grades
Definition and Threshold
Spinal curvatures are measured in degrees. For the discomfort to be called scoliosis, the curvature must be 10 degrees or more. Curvatures of 10 degrees and below are considered spinal asymmetry, not scoliosis.
Mild Scoliosis
Mild scoliosis refers to a curvature less than 20 degrees. A 20-degree scoliosis image usually indicates that no treatment is needed. However, patients should attend regular check-ups to monitor whether the curvature increases.
Moderate Scoliosis
Curvatures between 20 and 40 degrees are classified as moderate scoliosis. The appearance of 20 or 30-degree scoliosis, which is mostly diagnosed between the ages of 10–15, can be improved with corsets and physical therapy.
Severe Scoliosis
Severe scoliosis is defined as curvature over 40 degrees. Since 40-degree scoliosis and above cause significant symptoms, most patients in this group are treated with surgery.
How is Scoliosis Grade Calculated?
Imaging methods do scoliosis grading. Computed tomography, radiography, and MRI are the methods used in grade calculations.
Scoliosis Disease Symptoms
Scoliosis symptoms, which are not very obvious in the early period, may cause different health problems in the later periods. Since back pain is the most common symptom, patients often search for scoliosis pain. Symptoms of scoliosis that vary from case to case, depending on the severity and type of scoliosis, are:
- Bending the spine to the right or left side,
- Visible curvature of the spine,
- Asymmetry in the shoulders and hips,
- Difficulty standing upright
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Problems in walking
- Back, waist and shoulder pain,
- The clothes do not fit the body properly.
How is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis of scoliosis allows the treatment to give much more positive results. For this, thanks to school screenings, especially in adolescents, there is a chance to intervene in scoliosis without the need for surgical operation.
Physical Examination in Adults
In adults, a physical examination is necessary for the diagnosis of scoliosis. During the examination, patients are asked to bend forward in order to see the curvature. At the same time, the curvature is visible when the patients are standing.
Use of Imaging Methods
In the diagnosis of scoliosis, imaging methods are used as well as examination findings. The degree of scoliosis is determined according to the x-ray results of the patients leaning forward, sideways or backwards.
Role of MRI
MRI is generally used in patients with symptoms such as pain in the leg and back regions and intestinal problems.
Role of CT Scans
In scoliosis with curvatures greater than 40 degrees, computed tomography is required to better see the bone and spine.
Scoliosis Treatment
Scoliosis treatment is planned by considering the patient’s age, the degree and location of the curvature, the severity of pain in adults, findings from physical examinations and imaging, and how much the curvature progresses over time. Early diagnosis with scoliosis x-rays and examinations significantly increases treatment success.
Treatment options include observation, corset treatment, physical therapy, and surgery. Observation is generally used for curves below 20 degrees and helps track progression. Physical therapy and surgery are more suitable for adults and severe cases. Surgery is considered the last option in both children and adults.
Corset Treatment
Bracing is used to control spinal curvature in children and infants. It is especially effective in moderate scoliosis between 20 and 40 degrees. In children whose bone development continues, braces may be used up to 60 degrees. While bracing does not correct curvature, it prevents further progression. As children grow, braces are replaced with new ones.
Scoliosis Surgery
When non-surgical methods fail to stop progression and symptoms persist, surgery becomes necessary. It is the main option for patients with severe pain, bowel problems, or muscle weakness.
In adults who have completed development, spinal fusion surgery is common. This involves using metal rods, screws, and sometimes bone grafts to correct the curvature. In children under 10, fusion is avoided. Instead, special rods are placed to control curvature without affecting lung development. These rods are lengthened as the child grows.
Recovery from scoliosis surgery takes longer than many other operations. Patients are monitored for about a week, can return to daily life within one month, and resume sports after three months.
What Scoliosis Patients Should Not Do
- Avoid cumbersome exercises: While regular exercise is beneficial, heavy or overly demanding workouts should be avoided.
- Choose supportive activities: Swimming, yoga, and Pilates are recommended as they strengthen back muscles, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
- Refrain from high-impact sports: Long-distance running, horseback riding, and other activities that put pressure on the spine should be avoided.
- Post-surgery restrictions: Patients who have undergone scoliosis surgery should stay away from multi-contact sports that may cause trauma.
- Limit prolonged desk work: Sitting for long hours at a desk can worsen spinal curvature and should be minimized.
- Avoid lying face down: This position can increase back and waist pain.
- Do not use too many pillows: Excessive pillow use while sleeping is not recommended, as it may affect spinal alignment.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us for professional help.
Which doctor and department to go to for scoliosis?
It is necessary to apply to the Orthopedics department to diagnose and treat scoliosis.
