Scoliosis: Why Early Detection is Key

Orthopedics & Joint Replacement | by Dr. Rakesh Rajput | Published on 22/10/2024

Scoliosis is a medical condition often characterised by an unusual curve of the spine. This curve can resemble a C shape if your spine curves to the left and an S shape if it curves to the right. Although it can affect individuals of any age group, it is commonly diagnosed in children during their growth years. According to a study by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, nearly 2%–3% of people around the world are affected by scoliosis. Scoliosis can be mild with no visible symptoms, or it can be severe in some cases; therefore, early detection and timely intervention are crucial. Having a fair understanding of scoliosis and its timely treatment can help you effectively manage this condition and improve quality of life. If you're experiencing any such problem, don't ignore it. Contact orthopedic specialist at CMRI Hospital, Kolkata today for expert consultation and treatment.

Symptoms & Causes of Scoliosis

While mild scoliosis may not have visible symptoms, however, some individuals may experience

• Back pain.
• A change in posture.
• A visible curve in the spine.
• Weakness in core muscles. 
• Uneven shoulders—one shoulder drooping below the other.

What Causes Scoliosis? 

The cause of scoliosis depends on the type of scoliosis and may include

• Neuromuscular conditions such as cerebral palsy, which affect the nerves and muscles of individuals. 
• Congenital factors that affect the development of the spine during birth.
• Injury to the spine.
• Genetic changes.
• A tumour in the spinal cord that can cause changes to the spine. 

Why Early Detection Matters in Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a progressive condition that can get worse over time if left untreated. Early detection of scoliosis allows the individual to avail timely treatment, which helps in its effective management and better quality of life. The individual suffering from mild scoliosis may not require extensive treatment, but to prevent the condition from becoming severe, proper care is crucial. There are multiple advantages of timely intervention, such as:

• You have the option of non-surgical treatments if you start working on this problem in the early stages. 
• Physical therapies and scoliosis-specific exercises can prove to be effective in certain cases. 
• Early detection prevents the condition from getting worse and impacting your everyday life. 
• For moderate curves, especially in growing children, bracing is the effective option that can prevent further curving of the spine.
• In severe cases, surgery can be required to correct the spinal curve. 

If the scoliosis curve increases, it can lead to other complications such as chronic pain, breathing issues, and low self-esteem due to physical changes in your body. Therefore, regular monitoring with a healthcare professional, especially in the growth phase of children, can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment of this problem. 

The risks of delayed detection of scoliosis

If scoliosis is not detected or treated in early stages, it can lead to the following problems:

• Chronic Pain: In certain severe cases, untreated scoliosis can lead to chronic back pain. This is especially the case when the curved spine starts putting pressure on the surrounding muscles and nerves.
• Spinal deformity: Being progressive in nature, if not given proper attention in the initial stages, scoliosis can get worse. It can cause visible changes in the spinal cord, thus affecting your posture and appearance.
• Cardiopulmonary Problems: An abnormal spinal curvature, if it becomes worse, can impact the function of the heart and lungs. This may lead to breathing problems, changes in heart rhythm, etc. due to the impact of scoliosis on the thoracic (chest) region.
• Emotional Impact: Children suffering from scoliosis, especially with visible posture and spine changes, may feel low self-esteem, distress, or anxiety due to body image concerns.

These risks can be significantly reduced, and the person suffering from scoliosis can lead a quality life if treated before the problem gets severe.

Takeaways

Scoliosis is a condition that needs early detection and treatment. This is particularly crucial in the case of growing children. Many times, symptoms of scoliosis are not visible. Therefore, proper screening and regular check-ups are required. If you find any noticeable signs of uneven posture or back discomfort in yourself or your child, then you must consult a doctor. Early detection is a key that opens up better and multiple options for you to manage this condition. Being aware and following a proactive approach will help you lead a better and more quality life. 

FAQs

At what age does scoliosis usually appear?

Scoliosis often occurs during adolescence, typically in the growth ages between 10 and 15.

Does scoliosis cause pain?

Mild scoliosis usually does not cause pain. However, as the curve increases, individuals can start having back pain. 

Is exercise beneficial for scoliosis?

Yes, exercises such as physical therapy can help improve posture, muscle strength, and flexibility. But you should get proper treatment from a health professional.

Can Scoliosis be inherited?

Scoliosis can run in families, especially idiopathic scoliosis, suggesting a genetic component, but the exact hereditary patterns are still not fully understood.