Name of the medical condition and other names that it’s been known by

• Scoliosis

 

What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition where a person's spine curves sideways, often looking like an "S" or "C" shape when viewed from behind. In a normal spine, the vertebrae (bones that make up the spine) stack straight up and down. But these bones twist and turn in scoliosis, causing the spine to curve to one side.

 

Scoliosis can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, the curve might be barely noticeable. However, in severe cases, it can be very obvious and even affect how the body functions.

 

Scoliosis isn't usually painful, but severe cases can cause discomfort and make breathing hard if the curved spine presses on the lungs. It can also affect a person's appearance, making them self-conscious.

 

There are different types of scoliosis:

• Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type, and doctors don't know exactly what causes it. It often shows up during the growth spurt just before puberty.

• Congenital scoliosis: This type is present at birth due to problems with how the spine forms.

• Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by conditions that affect the nerves and muscles, like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.

 

The main signs of scoliosis include:

• Uneven shoulders
• One shoulder blade sticking out more than the other
• Uneven waist
• One hip higher than the other
• The body leaning to one side

 

Treatments:

Most cases of scoliosis are mild and don't need treatment. However, the curve can worsen over time for some people, especially children whose bodies are still growing. In these cases, doctors might recommend:

• Bracing: Wearing a special back brace to prevent the curve from worsening as the child grows.
• Surgery: In severe cases, doctors might suggest surgery to straighten the spine and prevent further curving.

 

Diagnosis:

• Doctors usually diagnose scoliosis by examining the spine and taking X-rays.

• They measure the curve in degrees - a curve of 10 degrees or more is considered scoliosis.

• Regular check-ups are important for people with scoliosis, especially growing children, to ensure the curve isn't worsening.

 

Living with scoliosis can be challenging, but many people with the condition lead normal, active lives. With proper care and treatment when needed, most people with scoliosis can do all the activities they enjoy.

 

Trend
• In the United States, about 6 to 9 million people have scoliosis.
• The number of people with scoliosis is expected to remain relatively stable.

 

History
Scoliosis has been known for thousands of years. Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates first described it around 400 BC.

 

For a long time, people didn't understand what caused it or how to treat it effectively. In the past, treatments were often harsh and not very helpful, like using heavy metal braces or keeping people in bed for years.

 

In the 1900s, doctors developed better ways to diagnose and treat scoliosis. They invented the Cobb method to measure spine curves on X-rays, which is still used today. Modern braces and surgical techniques were developed in the mid-1900s, greatly improving treatment options.

 

Today, we have a much better understanding of treatments for scoliosis, though there's still more to learn about its causes and how to prevent it.

 

Source of Information

• American Association of Neurological Surgeons

• Johns Hopkins Medicine

• Mayo Clinic

 

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.