Types of Scoliosis and Treatment Methods Scoliosis refers to the abnormal or sideways curvature of the spine or backbone that generally occurs during the growth spurt just before the puberty. This spinal disorder occurs in the thoracic and thoracic-lumbar regions due to congenital or degenerative problems. Generally, the spine can curve in any of three ways –
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towards the side as a single curve to the left
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towards the side as a single curve to the right
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as two curves
The condition is more common in girls than boys and is mostly seen in those older than ten years. The associated symptoms include –
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Uneven waist
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Uneven shoulders
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One shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other
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One hip higher than the other
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Difficulty in breathing
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Back pain
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Menstrual-cycle disturbances
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Leg and hip pain
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Knee pain
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Headache
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Chronic fatigue and future spinal kyphosis (widow’s hump)
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A tendency to lean to one side
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A prominent ribcage
Types of Scoliosis •
Degenerative – This type of scoliosis occurs due to traumatic injury or illness, bone collapse, previous surgery or osteoporosis
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Congenital – This condition occurs due to a bone abnormality during birth. It arises when the bony portion of the spine does not form properly or separated segments fuse during fetal development
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Neuromuscular – This is the result of abnormal muscles/nerves or muscular diseases such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and other nerve disorders
Most cases of scoliosis do not require treatment.
However, it severe it can produce a
noticeable deformity of the spine, cause pain and affect quality of life. Severe cases can affect lung function and the function of abdominal organs.
Treatment for Scoliosis To diagnose the severity of the condition, the physician will recommend an MRI of the lumbar spine. Treatment would depend on several factors such as the patient’s age, intensity of symptoms, severity of curve, and growth and location of symptoms. The treatment modalities used in established healthcare centers include:
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Physical therapy – This treatment involves therapeutic programs that help to strengthen muscles, alleviate pain and improve flexibility in the region around the back. It also helps patients improve posture and range of motion. Strengthening and stretching exercises are prescribed to build up muscle strength and restore normal spine functions.
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Chiropractic care – This spinal manipulation technique helps to restore joint mobility and restores body movement without the need of medication or surgery. It is effective for treating neuro-musculoskeletal complaints such as joint pain, headaches, knee pain and back pain.
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Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) – TENS machine uses low voltage electric impulses to the affected area that interacts with the sensory nervous system, to block or reduce muscle spasm and ache symptoms.
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Exercise – Physical exercises helps to build up muscle strength and restore normal spine
functions.
Generally,
stretching
and
strengthening
exercises
are
recommended. Customized scoliosis treatment in a professional healthcare center can reduce spine curvature, provide relief from pain, and increase the spine’s flexibility and range of motion.
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718-769-2521