What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that visually shows a C- or S-shaped spine. It can affect any part of the spine, but the most common regions are at the level of the chest and the lower back. Scoliosis can appear at any age but it often presents from the age of 10 to 12 years or during the teens. Infants can sometimes have symptoms as well.
Causes of Scoliosis
While Scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Spina Bifida, or a birth defect, the cause of most Scoliosis is idiopathic. Scoliosis ranges from 10-20 degrees (mild), 20-50 degrees (moderate), and severe (greater than 50 degrees).
Symptoms of Scoliosis
Signs and symptoms of Scoliosis may include uneven shoulders, uneven waist, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent, and one hip higher than the other. If a Scoliosis curve gets worse, the spine will also twist or rotate in addition to curving side to side. This causes the ribs on one side of the body to stick out farther than on the other side.
Scoliosis Treatment
To treat Scoliosis, physical therapy takes a comprehensive approach to treatment. Manual therapy techniques are utilised to assist with joint and soft tissue dysfunctions along with deficient neuromuscular strength and endurance. In addition to providing postural recommendations for sitting, standing, and sleeping, self-management strategies that are designed to facilitate the overall rehabilitation process will be provided. Strengthening exercises that exhibit safe and appropriate flexibility will also be prescribed to help improve tolerance for everyday and recreational activities. If in doubt, please seek professional advice.
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