Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine that can be seen in the thoracic or lumbar regions of the spine. It can be seen alone or together with kyphosis (an abnormal curvature from back to front) (Kyphoscoliosis).  

The disease is more common in girls. Scoliosis exceeding 30 degrees is seen ten times more in adolescent girls compared to boys.  There are 2.5 million patients with scoliosis in Turkey.

Reasons

Scoliosis can originate from a variety of reasons. For example, it is seen in disabled children or those who had a stroke in childhood. However, most frequently seen scoliosis are the scoliosis seen in the idiopathic group, which occurs mostly at the age of 10, and the cause is still unknown(idiopatic),  and the scoliosis that occurs due to factors in the mother's womb and that manifests starting from the birth (congenital).  The reason for the first is not known exactly. Congenital scoliosis is thought to be caused by infections, diabetes, and some vitamin deficiencies that are experienced during pregnancy.

  • It can be congenital. This condition is usually due to a defect in the spine or fused ribs.
  • It can occur because of polio, paralysis of the muscles due to conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
  • It may be idiopathic (cause unknown). It can occur in a previously smooth spine, for an unknown reason.

Findings

Different types of scoliosis

  • Sideways curvature of the spine
  • Asymmetries of shoulders and hips
  • Presence of a second curvature compensating for the first curvature
  • Back and / or low back pain
  • Tiredness
  • Shortness of breath
  • One shoulder (right-left) moving forward

Tests

During physical examination, the curvature becomes more apparent when the patient leans forward. Spine x-rays and scoliosometer measurements (a device that measures the curvature of the spine) made in different positions are tests that can be performed to determine the degree of scoliosis.

Types

Scoliosis disease is divided into three classes. These are;

  • Non structural
  • Temporary structural
  • Structural scoliosis.