What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal, sideways curvature of the spine. Scoliosis usually shows up during growth spurts when kids are between 10 and 15 years old, or just before puberty. Scoliosis is very common; over 3 million new cases of it are diagnosed every year.
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Sometimes, when patients are diagnosed with scoliosis, it can be alarming because they don't know what it is. Also, parents sometimes will blame themselves for their child developing scoliosis. However, most cases of scoliosis do not need treatment. Only about 30% need a brace, and about 10% need surgery.
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Common signs of scoliosis include uneven shoulders or hips, leaning to one side, head uncentered with the rest of their body, their ribs stick out, etc. A common way to check for scoliosis is to have the patient bend forward. If the two sides of their back are uneven, then they should be checked by a professional.
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Scoliosis curves of 10-25 degrees are mild where treatment is not necessary and the patients’ scoliosis is just observed from time to time. A curve 10 degrees or less is considered normal. A curve of 26- 40 degrees is considered moderate scoliosis where bracing is the normal treatment. A curve of 40 or more degrees is severe scoliosis. In the case of severe scoliosis, surgery, or spinal fusion, is the most common form of treatment.
Scoliosis Informational Video
If you're not much of a reader, I explain in this video what scoliosis is and possible treatments, such as back braces or surgery. I also give my advice, brace fashion tips, and more!