Since adolescence is typically defined by a period of rapid growth, during this time children with scoliosis may experience a worsening of the curvature. That's why it is so important to reverse the problem as early as possible. "The sooner it's detected, the more chance we have to correct it with a brace, and avoid surgery," says Zeller. Since scoliosis has no symptoms (unless the condition has become extreme), you need to pay attention to these physical signs:
• leaning to one side, instead of standing up straight;
• uneven shoulders, waist or hips;
• one shoulder blade appearing more prominent than the other;
• head appearing misaligned over the pelvis; and
• in females, one breast appearing more prominent, because of spine rotation.
The severity of scoliosis is measured in degrees.
Doctors look at X-rays of the spine to measure the angle of the curve. A normal, straight spine measures zero degrees. A spine that is mildly affected by scoliosis has a curve of 20 degrees or less. A curve that measures greater than 70 degrees can lead to health complications if your rib cage pushes against your heart and lungs. This may cause significant breathing difficulties, as well as an increased risk of lung infections and pneumonia.
There are several ways to prevent scoliosis from getting worse.
• Checkups: If your scoliosis is not severe (20 degrees or less), your doctor may only want to monitor your condition. In 90 per cent of cases, scoliotic curves are mild and do not require active treatment.
• Brace: If your curve is about 20 degrees, and progressing, you will likely need to wear a brace to prevent it from worsening. The brace is worn until the spine has finished growing. For girls, this is usually two years after they get their first period. In 15 to 20 per cent of cases the brace is not effective, so doctors may turn to the next treatment option.
• Surgery: This is an option for curves of greater than 50 degrees. Metal rods are used tostraighten the spine to reduce the severity of the curve.
How to home screen your child for scoliosis
Here's how to do a simple test at home to detect an abnormal spinal curve.
1. Stand behind your child and ask her to bend forward from the waist, with her head down and her hands together in front of her.
2. Examine your child's back, keeping an eye out for humps in the upper back, unevenness in the lower back, asymmetrical hips, and uneven shoulders and shoulder blades.
3. You can repeat the test by having your child turn around to face you, as you again look for any abnormalities.
4. If you do find anything unusual, see your doctor.
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