Any side-to-side curve in the spine is unusual, a condition called scoliosis. People with cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy may show this spinal curvature as part of their condition, or scoliosis may be a disease medically known as idiopathic scoliosis.
The sideways curve ranges from mild to severe between patients. When scoliosis is significant, it can cause problems, particularly with breathing, since lungs need room to expand and contract.
As a scoliosis expert, Sanjay Khurana, MD, regularly diagnoses and treats patients with this condition. Treatments range from observation to prosthetic aids. In the most severe cases, surgical straightening of the spine may become necessary.
When, though, should you consider treatment for mild scoliosis? Let’s review the condition and the reasons that typically make treatment necessary.
Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of the disease, and it often emerges in children about 11 to 18 years old, though it can strike anyone at any age. Signs that someone might be developing scoliosis show up as:
About one-quarter of those with idiopathic scoliosis have back pain. Due to the changes in the chest caused by some spinal curvature, a patient could also have pulmonary issues if lung function is disturbed.
Causes of scoliosis are not something the patient does, such as carrying a heavy backpack over one shoulder, playing sports, or sitting in odd postures. Idiopathic scoliosis tends to run in families, but many patients never know why their condition emerges.
Mild cases of scoliosis may not create symptoms; therefore, treatment isn’t necessary. In these cases, Dr. Khurana often recommends a wait-and-see approach, regularly monitoring for increases in spinal curvature or gradual improvement of the condition.
Usually, treatment for scoliosis starts with moderate or severe cases. It is a common practice to treat moderate scoliosis with body braces. These won’t correct spinal curvature but can slow or halt the progression.
In some cases, a child with mild scoliosis might benefit from a brace if their bones have not yet stopped growing. Girls are more susceptible to the advancement of scoliosis, so there may be cases where Dr. Khurana recommends bracing for an otherwise mild case.
It’s critical that any sign of scoliosis, mild to severe, receives specialist attention. Visit Sanjay Khurana, MD, for the finest spine expertise in Marina Del Rey and Manhattan Beach. Book your consultation online or by phone with our nearest office today.
