Children and Scoliosis 

Nearly every child has been told to sit up straight by an adult, but a healthy spine actually has quite an inward curve in the lower portion known as the lumbar region. However, it is not necessarily healthy when the spine curves towards the left or right side of the body, indicating a medical condition called scoliosis. If your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, don’t fret, here’s how we can help. 

What is Scoliosis? 

Did you know that a healthy spine is supposed to have an inward curve in the lumbar (lower back) region? While this is true, however, it is not necessarily healthy when the spine curves towards the left or right side of the body. When this occurs, it’s known as a condition called scoliosis. Scoliosis is when the spine curves sideways to one side of the body, either the left or the right. It is a common back problem that millions of children are screened for each year. The curve can be mild to severe, with uncomfortable symptoms and risks dependent on the cause. When looking at imaging on X-rays, you will notice the spine has either a ’S’ or ‘C’ shape. 

Symptoms of Scoliosis 

It’s estimated that up to nine million people in the United States alone have a form of scoliosis. The curve to one side of the body might only be visible when being screened through a physical examination. If this is the case, many people don’t have any symptoms. However, as the curve deepens, it’s more likely for patients to experience the following symptoms: 

• Uneven hip or shoulder alignments.
• A dull ache around the spine. 
• Twisted torso or ribcage.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Prominent shoulder blade exposure on one side or the other. 

Causes 

Up to 50% of scoliosis cases are idiopathic, meaning there is no specific cause. While this might be frustrating to hear, the good news is that these cases are typically easier to treat and manage. Treatment an be more difficult if the scoliosis is caused by:

• Tumors or bone growths pushing the spine of alignment.
• Cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
• Birth defects.
• Infections of the spine or injuries to the ligaments and tendons supporting proper alignment. 
• Leg length inequalities that push your entire skeleton out of line. 

Scoliosis and Children 

Most scoliosis cases in children occur around the age 10 through the time they’re fully grown. Since it’s rarely painful, it many times goes unnoticed between children and parents. It is often discovered during a school screening or at a regular checkup with a primary care physician. Some of the main risks for developing scoliosis include going through puberty and growth spurts. When growth spurts happen quickly, it can throw off the alignment of the spine. 

For most children, the curves in the spine are minor and won’t require treatment, however, children with larger curves may need treatment to restore normal posture. 

Observation

If you believe you are (or your child is) showing signs of scoliosis, it’s best to have it monitored. Even if you’ve received a diagnosis of scoliosis, it’s best to attend annual check ups to monitor your condition and help you avoid the risk of surgery. At Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center, our doctors believe in the power of noninvasive treatment plans. The sooner we find your condition, the sooner we can develop an custom treatment plan to help prevent life-altering symptoms. Even if you have a teen or are a young adult yourself, treating the curve in your spine can help prevent the curve from affecting your appearance like it would if you leave it untreated for years. 

Treatment Options 

We can manage idiopathic mild scoliosis overtime. However, if there’s a specific cause, like a leg length issue, we may be able to restore your spine to its original straightness. At Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center, we offer treatments for your spine, like: 

• Spinal adjustment through proper stretching, traction treatments, and chiropractic adjustment.
• Muscle relaxation with techniques like massage and electrostimulation.
• Lifestyle changes to encourage back strength to support your spine.

Make an Appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center

Conveniently located in Austin, Texas,  Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center is here for you if you are experiencing symptoms due to scoliosis. You don’t have to suffer. Make an appointment today to learn what a specialized treatment plan for scoliosis could do to help you improve your quality of life. We will help you understand what is causing your symptoms, and what it will take for you to improve. Call us today for an appointment: (512)-806-0015.