Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, often in the shape of an “S” or “C”. While some degree of spinal curvature is normal, scoliosis involves a significant deviation that can affect your posture and cause pain. In severe cases, it can also lead to long-term complications, such as limited mobility or organ dysfunction.
Scoliosis can develop at any age but is most commonly diagnosed during childhood or adolescence, particularly during the growth spurt before puberty. Early intervention is key to preventing the condition from worsening.
There are several different treatment options available for scoliosis, depending on the severity and the age of the patient. At CalSpine MD, Dr. Hieu Ball specializes in scoliosis treatment and is here to help you find the treatment plan that is best for you.
Scoliosis occurs when the spine develops a rotational and sideways curve. It is most common in children and adolescents but may also occur with degenerative disc disease when the discs collapse unevenly and cause curvature in the spine.
The exact cause of scoliosis often remains unknown, though it can be associated with genetic factors and may run in families.
In many cases, scoliosis may not cause significant discomfort or interfere with daily life. However, over time, the condition can worsen, especially if left untreated.
Scoliosis affects the entire skeletal system, including the spine, ribs, and pelvis. It also impacts the brain and central nervous system, as well as the body’s hormonal and digestive systems.
Some patients experience aches, pains, or stiffness, while others may develop reduced lung function or difficulty participating in physical activities due to the curve’s impact on the chest and organs. For these people, the discomfort may lead to a decrease in their quality of life.
If moderate to severe scoliosis is left untreated, it can lead to pain and increasing deformity, as well as potential heart and lung compromise.
In more severe cases, scoliosis can become disabling. As the curve deepens, it may compress the chest cavity, restricting lung function and making breathing more difficult. In extreme cases, the curvature may require surgical intervention to prevent further complications.
The signs of scoliosis may include:
Symptoms of scoliosis may include:
Here are the different types of scoliosis:
Initial treatment for scoliosis may be nonsurgical, but if the curvature of the spine is severe or worsens over time, surgery may be considered.
For more minor cases of scoliosis, we may recommend simply keeping an eye on the curve to make sure it does not get worse.
However, if the curve is 20-40 degrees when first measured and has increased more than 5 degrees over time, bracing may be recommended to stop the progression of the curve. Bracing may also be recommended for children who have a curve that is more than 30 degrees and still have a lot of growing left to do.
The primary purpose of bracing is to stop the progression of the curve. Bracing is typically done until the patient has stopped growing, at which point the curve is much less likely to get worse.
Braces for scoliosis can be made of rigid plastic or soft elastic material. The type of brace needed will depend on the positioning of the curve, the flexibility of the curve, and how many curves there are in the spine. The child’s lifestyle and activities will also be considered when choosing a brace.
Depending on the curve, Dr. Ball may recommend a brace that can be worn as little as 8 hours a day while the child is sleeping. Braces designed to be worn during the daytime may be worn for a longer period of time.
The longer the brace is worn, the less likely the patient is to need surgery in the future. Your doctor will advise you on how and when to wear your brace. Typically, you will have to follow up approximately every 6 months to re-evaluate your condition.
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with 45-50 degree curves in the spine, or for patients whose curves get worse over time.
Surgical treatment for scoliosis involves spinal fusion. During this procedure, Dr. Ball realigns the spine and fuses the curved vertebrae together. The fused vertebrae heal together, creating one solid bone.
This can greatly reduce the curve in the spine. Rods, screws, and cages are used to hold the fusion in place, and are typically not removed after the bones have fused.
The fused portion of the spine will be immobile, but Dr. Ball will fuse only the vertebrae that are necessary and safe to reduce the curvature. This will allow you to retain motion in the unfused parts of the spine.
Patients will need to stay in the hospital for a few days after a spinal fusion, but are typically able to walk the day after surgery. Children who have undergone a spinal fusion may need to stay home from school for 2 to 4 weeks.
Patients will also need to avoid certain activities while the spine heals. Heavy lifting and bending forward should be limited as much as possible for the first 6-12 weeks. Patients are able to resume exercise and sports activities within 3 months of surgery, but contact sports should be avoided until the spine has fully healed.
A complete, solid fusion of the spine is typically achieved within 6-12 months of surgery. Once fully healed, patients are able to participate in most activities, but may need time to adapt to some activities.
At CalSpine MD, we understand that scoliosis can be a challenging condition that requires careful management. We specialize in diagnosing and managing scoliosis, offering personalized treatment plans based on your needs.
Whether you or your child has been recently diagnosed or is seeking a second opinion, we are here to provide expert care and guidance.
If you think you or a loved one may have scoliosis and would like an evaluation, please call (925) 838-8830 to schedule an appointment. You may also request an appointment online.
