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What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a general name for a condition that causes the spine to curve abnormally sideways. It is a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide. In Turkey, more than 2.5 million people have been diagnosed with scoliosis. Every year, many children start wearing corsets for scoliosis treatment, while thousands of people with severe curvature undergo surgery. Scoliosis awareness is important for early diagnosis and treatment. With scoliosis awareness, quality of life improves with early treatment. June is recognized as Scoliosis Awareness Month and is an important month to remind people to be alert to the possibility of spinal curvature. By reading our article and determining the best course of action, you can better understand the symptoms and treatment options for scoliosis.
What are the Types of Spinal Curvature (Scoliosis)?
Scoliosis is a condition that causes an unusual sideways curvature of the spine. This curvature affects the spine, creating a three-dimensional shape like the letter “C” or “S”. A healthy spine has a natural curvature that allows movement and flexibility. In scoliosis, however, the spine bends excessively to the side beyond its normal limits, resulting in a noticeable sideways curvature.
To be considered scoliosis, the curvature of the spine must be at least 10 degrees. This angle is called the “Cobb angle” and is used to measure the degree of curvature. The severity of scoliosis can range from mild cases of less than 10 degrees to severe cases of 90 degrees or more. At MSM Clinic, we determine the treatment method depending on the severity of the scoliosis.
Scoliosis can be broadly classified as follows:
- Scoliosis of Infancy: It is used for spinal problems that occur within the first three months after birth.
- Childhood Scoliosis: It is a type of scoliosis seen in children from the age of 3 until the age of 10.
- Adolescent Scoliosis: This is the most common type of scoliosis and occurs from the age of 10 years onwards, which is the age to pay the most attention.
- Scoliosis can also be classified according to the shape and cause of the curve:
- Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is a very common type of scoliosis with an unknown cause.
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis: A type of scoliosis caused by an underlying medical condition such as muscle weakness or neuromuscular diseases.
- Congenital Scoliosis: Scoliosis caused by bone or muscle abnormalities in the spine from birth.
- Degenerative Scoliosis: Scoliosis caused by degeneration of the spinal discs due to aging.
What are the Symptoms of Scoliosis?
Scoliosis symptoms vary according to age. As MSM Clinic, we can classify the symptoms according to the age of our clients as follows.
Scoliosis symptoms in children and adolescents:
- Asymmetrical shoulders or hips: One shoulder or hip may be higher than the other.
- A noticeable curvature of the back or shoulders: Especially noticeable when leaning forward or sideways.
- Ribs that protrude more on one side than the other: especially noticeable when bending over.
- Fatigue or back pain: May be more pronounced, especially after standing or sitting for long periods of time.
- Shortness of breath (in advanced cases):: The curvature of the spine can put pressure on the lungs and make breathing difficult.
Symptoms of scoliosis in adults:
- Back pain: This is the most common symptom of scoliosis in adults.
- Fatigue: Fatigue may occur, especially after short activities.
- Numbness or tingling: When the spinal nerves are compressed, you may feel numbness or tingling in the legs or arms.
- Balance or coordination problems: As scoliosis progresses, problems with balance and coordination may occur.
- Shortness of breath (in advanced cases): The curvature of the spine can put pressure on the lungs and make breathing difficult
If you are experiencing symptoms of scoliosis or think that you or someone you know may have scoliosis, it is important to contact a specialist clinic for early detection and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help stop the progression of scoliosis and maintain quality of life.
How is scoliosis treated?
The main goal of scoliosis treatment is to relieve symptoms such as back pain and stop the progression of the curve. Depending on the severity of the curvature and the age of the patient, different treatment methods can be applied. These treatment methods vary according to the angle of the spinal curvature, the patient’s age and lifestyle.
Mild Scoliosis (10-20 degrees):
– Curvatures of 10-20 degrees are generally considered mild and do not cause any symptoms.
– In these cases, our specialist will schedule regular check-ups to monitor the progression of the curve.
– If necessary, conservative treatments such as exercises or bracing may be recommended.
Moderate Scoliosis (20-40 degrees):
– Curves of 20-40 degrees are considered moderate and can cause back pain or cosmetic deterioration.
– The goal of treatment in these cases is to stop the progression of the curve and relieve symptoms.
– Treatment options may include exercises, bracing and in some cases surgery.
Severe Scoliosis (more than 40 degrees):
– Curves of more than 40 degrees are considered severe and can lead to serious health problems such as breathing problems or heart failure.
– Treatment in these cases is usually surgical.
– Surgery is used to straighten the spine and stop the progression of the curve.
Methods Used in Scoliosis Treatment:
Bracing: Bracing is used to help straighten the spine and stop the progression of the curve. It is especially effective in growing children.
Exercises: Scoliosis exercises help to strengthen the muscles in the spine and increase flexibility. Regular exercise can help slow or stop the progression of the curve.
Surgery: Surgery may be needed in severe cases of scoliosis or when bracing and exercises are not effective. During surgery, the bones are fused together to straighten the spine.
Treatment for scoliosis must be planned individually for each patient. Depending on the severity of the curvature, the patient’s age and general health, your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment method.
What is Scoliosis Surgery?
The goal of scoliosis treatment is to stop the progression of scoliosis and relieve symptoms. Most cases of scoliosis can be successfully treated with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, exercise and bracing. However, in some cases, these treatments may not be sufficient and scoliosis surgery may be required. Scoliosis surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to straighten the spine and stop the progression of the curvature.
Conditions in which scoliosis surgery should be considered include:
- If the curvature is 45 degrees or more and continues to progress.
- If non-surgical treatments such as corsets do not work.
- If there are serious symptoms such as severe back pain or shortness of breath.
- If the curvature threatens heart or lung functions.
According to these criteria, it is determined whether scoliosis surgery is required. Surgery is usually considered a last resort and is considered after non-surgical treatments have been tried first.
What is the Recovery Process After Scoliosis Surgery?
The recovery process after scoliosis surgery usually takes several months. During this process, patients use methods such as medication and physical therapy to help control pain and speed healing. At the beginning of the postoperative period, the patient usually stays in the hospital for a few days and is careful to act in accordance with our doctor’s instructions.
During the post-operative rehabilitation process, patients work with physiotherapists to perform strengthening exercises and apply special exercises to increase spinal flexibility. This process encourages the patient to return to normal life by gradually increasing the level of physical activity.
Most patients can return to normal life after surgery. However, in some cases, persistent back pain or other problems may occur. In this case, the follow-up and treatment process continues in accordance with our doctor’s instructions.
The decision to have scoliosis surgery is an important decision and should be approached with caution. Our specialist doctor analyzes the patient’s condition in detail when evaluating the suitability of the surgery. The patient is informed about the risks and benefits of the surgery and actively participates in the decision-making process. In this way, the most appropriate treatment option is determined and the patient’s health is protected in the best possible way.
